RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 Blended Learning Using Peer Mentoring and WhatsApp for Building Capacity of Health Workers for Strengthening Immunization Services in Kenya
JF Global Health: Science and Practice
JO GLOB HEALTH SCI PRACT
FD Johns Hopkins University- Global Health. Bloomberg School of Public Health, Center for Communication Programs
SP 201
OP 215
DO 10.9745/GHSP-D-20-00421
VO 9
IS 1
A1 Hossain, Iqbal
A1 Mugoya, Isaac
A1 Muchai, Lilian
A1 Krudwig, Kirstin
A1 Davis, Nicole
A1 Shimp, Lora
A1 Richart, Vanessa
YR 2021
UL http://www.ghspjournal.org/content/9/1/201.abstract
AB Key MessagesWe piloted peer mentoring with WhatsApp for immunization capacity building of maternal and child health (MCH) nurses in the Lari and Machakos subcounties of Kenya.Each mentor was assigned 4 mentees and provided on-site mentoring and hands-on training for 1 year. WhatsApp networking groups supported peer-mentoring efforts.In both subcounties, we observed positive changes in mentees' immunization knowledge, skills, and practices.The WhatsApp platform improved mentees' engagement with peers and promoted discussion and learning.Evidence from available studies suggests that peer mentoring is a useful tool to build health workers' knowledge, skills, and practices. However, there is a dearth of research on use of this method of learning in immunization programs. Although WhatsApp has been used as a networking platform among health care professionals, there is limited research on its potential contribution to improving the immunization competencies of health workers. This study showed that peer mentoring and WhatsApp networking are useful blended learning methods for need-based and individualized capacity building of health workers providing immunization services. Future research to assess the comparative cost-benefit between classroom-based training and peer mentoring (along with WhatsApp networking) will be useful.