Bilingual, Digital, Audio-Visual Training Modules Improve Technical Knowledge of Feedlot and Dairy Workers

Abstract

Two studies were conducted to determine the effectiveness of digital multimedia modules as training tools for animal care workers. Employees at a commercial feedlot (n = 17) and a commercial dairy (n = 10) were asked to independently complete a 10-question quiz prior to and following viewing of training modules. Module topics in the feedlot were proper handling of non-ambulatory animals and humane methods of euthanasia; modules were administered to the workers, as a group, in either English (n = 7) or Spanish (N = 10), depending on previously indicated worker preference. Modules addressing dairy cattle health practices and dairy cattle handling were presented to the dairy care workers who had a preference for learning in either English (n = 7) or Spanish (n = 3). For feedlot workers, post-test scores were improved by 28% after viewing the modules compared to pre-test scores (74% vs. 58%; P < 0.01), across language and topic. There were no interactions (P > 0.30) between language, topic, and between-test variation, indicating that the modules were equally effective at information Bilingual, Digital, Audio-Visual Training Modules Improve Technical Knowledge… Vol. 5, Issue 7 (2010) 2 delivery to both audiences in both languages. For the dairy workers, test scores improved by 27% from pre-viewing to post-viewing (73% vs. 92%; P < 0.01); there was an interaction between the effect of module and language preference (P < 0.01) indicating that although scores increased for both of the topic areas for the English-speaking workers, only the score for the animal health topic increased for the Spanish-speaking workers. Regardless of nationality, level of formal education, topic, or preferred language, digital media are effective at improving knowledge transfer to animal care professionals.

A Guide to the Design of Occupational Safety and Health Training for Immigrant, Latino/a Dairy Workers

“…A variety of formats (e.g., audio-visual, face to face, verbal communication, hands-on) and media (e.g., flipcharts, videos, comic books, cartoons, fotonovelas , targeted brochures) should be utilized to accommodate low literacy levels and different learning preferences (7). See Reinhardt et al (65) for an example of a training using various formats and media in the context of dairy OSH. One creative approach that has proven to effectively increase health-related knowledge among immigrant, Latino/a farmworker populations is the use of theatrical presentations to disseminate health information [e.g., Ref.…”