Evaluation of Five Data-to-Action Workshops to Enhance Capacity for Tobacco Control

Abstract

Background Five data-to-action workshops were conducted during 2016–2019 with participants from 38 countries. The purpose of the workshops is to use data to inform and disseminate tobacco prevention and control strategies. We evaluated the workshops using the Kirkpatrick Model for evaluation of trainings. Methods We evaluated the data-to-action workshops in three topic areas: (1) if the workshop was clear, useful, engaging, and relevant to the participant’s work, (2) self-reported knowledge and skills for tobacco control topics, and (3) intention to apply the knowledge learned. We used nonparametric tests (one-sided Wilcoxon signed-rank test) and conducted descriptive analysis to assess the difference between pre- and postworkshop scores in each topic area. Free text data from open-ended responses were analyzed in Excel using thematic content analysis. Results Participants reported the workshop had a clear purpose (93.6%, n = 73), was well organized (94.9%, n = 74), and relevant to their work (96.2%, n = 76). There was a statistically significant increase in median learning scores across all three knowledge and five skills topic areas ( p < 0.05); more than 95% of participants intended to apply the knowledge they obtained during the workshop and planned to perform new skills learned in the workshop. Conclusions Programs interested in replicating a similar successful model may incorporate a mix of modes of instruction and hands-on experiences, as well as focus on the selection of the right audience, for their workshops. These workshops pose an opportunity for countries to enhance use and dissemination of their tobacco control data.

Disparities in research capacity for tobacco control: an inventory of peer-reviewed publications using the Global Tobacco Surveillance System data

“…The Global Tobacco Surveillance System started more than 20 years ago and has been implemented in over 180 countries and locations (49). Since then, there have been several initiatives to strengthen capacity to use and disseminate GTSS and tobacco control data globally including the Data-to-Action Workshops (50) which aim to build capacity to use data to inform and disseminate tobacco prevention and control strategies, the Tobacco Control Scholars Program focusing on peer-to-peer mentoring to publish scientific manuscripts in tobacco control, and established academic training programs like the Field Epidemiology Training Program (51). Having local and current peer-reviewed research could help researchers, decision makers and local organizations prioritize strategies especially as the burden of disease falls in these countries.…”