It is unclear whether engagement with Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) self-directed study can enhance the learning process and augment academic achievement. As such, the current study aims to investigate the relationship between VLE self-directed study provision in a Sports Therapy module and subsequent academic summative assessment success. The sample was comprised of 232 undergraduate BSc (Hons) Sports Therapy students (113 male, 119 female) across three separate student cohorts (2015, 2016, 2017). Each cohort was provided with differing VLE self-directed study. Analysis was conducted on its effect on achievement during both practical and written modes of summative assessment. The results of the current study

Background and Objectives: Treatment guidelines emphasize patients' readiness for transitioning from opiate substitution treatment (OST) to opiate withdrawal and abstinence. Psychological preparedness indicators for this transition were examined. Methods: Patients (all male) were recruited from three treatment settings: prison, an inpatient detoxification unit, and an outpatient clinic. Time 1 (T1) was admission to methadone-assisted withdrawal in all settings. Time 2 (T2) was a 6-month follow-up. With n = 24 at T1 for each group (N = 72), a battery of instruments relevant to psychological preparedness was administered. Results: At T1, inpatients had higher self-efficacy beliefs for successful treatment completion than prison patients. For patients contactable at T2, T1 self-efficacy positively predicted T2 opiate abstinence. No other variable improved prediction. T1 SOCRATES (Stages of Change Readiness and Treatment Eagerness Scale) ambivalence scores, age, and lifetime heroin use duration predicted maintenance of contact or not with treatment services and contactability by the researcher. Measures of mood did not differ between groups at T1 or predict T2 outcomes. Discussion and Conclusions: Self-efficacy beliefs are a potentially useful indicator of readiness for transitioning from OST to a medically assisted opiate withdrawal and subsequent abstinence. Ambivalence regarding change, age, and lifetime heroin use duration are potentially useful predictors of patients maintaining contact with services, and of being retained in research.

Workforce redesign using a rapid roll-out approach is a fast and effective approach, additionally providing benefits for staff participating in the process.