Introduction

Field Epidemiology Training Programmes (FETPs) are competency-based training and service programmes in applied epidemiology and public health. The programmes aim to develop the capacity of public health systems in countries by building competencies through on-the-job mentorship and training. FETP Mentorship training is a step in establishing the new FETP program in any country. Its main objective is to prepare the facilitators and mentors to support the training of the FETP residents and equip them with the necessary knowledge and skills they need to better manage the field work of FETP residents.

The workshop serves to reinforce the integral role of mentors in an FETP, as residents of the program receive 75% of their learning through practical training in the field under the guidance of a mentor. Entering practice in any profession offers a major challenge to newly qualified practitioners. It is a formative period where the knowledge, skills, and attitudes acquired during a programme of education are applied in practice. It is a transition period which can be stressful as well as challenging as new demands are made upon individuals who are seeking to consolidate their skills. Therefore, it is a period when a practitioner is in need of guidance and support in order to develop confidence and competence.

Mentor has a comprehensive capstone of expected field activities of FETP in field job training,  mainly on surveillance, data collection, analysis, and epidemiologic investigation. To perform their duties in a more efficient manner, an FETP mentor must have a solid understanding of the program’s requirements, the necessary technical knowledge, and an efficient way to support and supervise the residents. In addition, it adds extra focus to leadership and management skills.

Also, the workshop has been specifically designed to help FETP mentors develop an understanding of mentoring and strengthen their mentoring skills that can quickly and effectively put what they learned into practice,

This workshop serves to help FETP mentors develop understanding of coaching, supervising, mentoring and the benefits of using them when working with FETP residents in Field supervision to  Monitor trainee activities,  Evaluate trainee activities,  Help trainee develop project ideas,  Troubleshoot barriers to completion of projects, and Implement or help facilitate the implementation of recommendations.


Objectives of the course

The general objective of the curriculum is to “build the capacity of the mentors to effectively and efficiently mentor the FETP residents during their field work, and support them to design and manage their projects. The specific objectives are to:

1.     Comprehend the FETP program structure and design

2.     Comprehend the roles and responsibilities of FETP Mentor

3.     Demonstrate the characterististics of an effective mentor

4.     Explain the field work assignment and assessment tool 

5.     Provide constructive feedback on mentee's skills and development needs for the successful completion of the participant’s projected in the field work


Target Audience

This curriculum designed for anyone who is involved in FETP mentoring. A pool of mentors will be made available to ensure the sustainability for the training program.


Course Outline

The course total duration is three days which is composing of 9 Sessions. But, successful completion of this course will develop a basic understanding and essential skills of mentoring skills

The training covers the following topics;

1.     Overview of Mentoring

2.     Tips for Successful Mentoring

3.     Effective Feedback

4.     Mentor_Role_Competencies

5.     Mentor Training


Training method

The course uses the blended-learning model. The online sessions designed to be self-paced learning, and the the one-day workshop will be face to face workshop or virtual interaction between the participants and the facilitators. 


Course duration

The duration of the course is 3 days.


Certificate

The participant will receive a certificate of participation.


Course policy

To complete the course, participants must:

1.      Complete the pre and posttest.

2.      Complete all sessions.

3.      Attend the one-day workshop.  

4.      Fill out the course evaluation questionnaire