scholarly journals COLLEGE CONVERSION INTO QUARANTINE CENTRE: PARENTS’ PERCEPTION ON SAFETY AT KENYA MEDICAL TRAINING COLLEGE, MOMBASA

2021 ◽  
Vol 5 (2) ◽  
pp. 83
Author(s):  
Japheth Ogada ◽  
Rita Miriti ◽  
Marsellah Ogendo ◽  
Winnie Barawa ◽  
Florence Hawa

Purpose: The aim of this study was to determine perception of parents on safety of their children upon resumption of face-to-face studies at Kenya Medical Training College, Mombasa after its temporary conversion into COVID-19 quarantine centre. Methodology: The study was a descriptive cross-sectional design done at KMTC-Mombasa. 85 (10%) parents were sampled by convenience method from total population of 850. Multi stage sampling was used to select 85 participants. Data was collected through structured phone administered interview. Response rate was 85.8% (73). Descriptive analyses were carried out using SPSS 26. Presentation of the results was done by use of graphs, pie charts and tables. Findings: 65.8% (48) of parents were aware of KMTC Mombasa having being converted into COVID-19 quarantine centre. Most parents 91.8% (67) felt safe for their children to go back to college. Availability of clear information about safety measures was cited by 69% (46) of the parents as the reason they felt the students would be safe. Only 6 parents (8.2%) felt unsafe for their children. They explained that COVID-19 spreads quickly in congested places like schools and that the college was ‘highly infectious’ as a quarantine centre. There was a significant relationship between parents perception of safety of the college and their proposition of dates of reopening the college (p=0.01). Parents generally considered the college facilities conducive for use (Mean=61.33%). Unique contribution to theory, practice and Policy: The views of parents as key stakeholders when learning institutions are converted into quarantine centers during a pandemic have not been explored in literature. Parents who perceived the college as safe would allow their children to go back to college and resume face-to-face learning as soon as possible. However, parents who perceived the college as unsafe would stop their children from going back to college. For smooth learning, it is important for college management to ensure that necessary safety measures are put in place and communicated to parents before reopening of college.

2020 ◽  
Vol 6 (6) ◽  
pp. 64
Author(s):  
Rachael Mwende ◽  
Caroline Mramba ◽  
Dominic Mutonga ◽  
Rhoda Nchogu ◽  
Marsellah Ogendo ◽  
...  

Purpose: The aim of the study was to assess students’ readiness to go back to college after closure due to COVID-19.  Methodology: The study used a descriptive cross-sectional design which was done at KMTC-Mombasa Campus. Participants (Students) were selected using multi stage sampling and sample size determination was done using Fischer’s statistical formula at a confidence level of (p=95%), n=253. Data was obtained using a structured questionnaire through online surveys and focused group discussions via online platform. Data analysis was done using SPSS and Excel then results presented using tables and narrations. Results: 76.7% (194) of the respondents were ready to get back to college immediately while 23.3% (59) were willing to resume studies later. The main reason for respondents wanting to go back to college immediately was to finish school (n=60). 67.8 % (40) of the respondents who wanted to go back later feared contracting COVID-19. 78% (175) of respondents were aware that college had been used as quarantine center yet they were still ready to go back to college immediately. Unique contribution to theory, practice and policy: The closure of learning institutions globally during the COVID-19 pandemic is unprecedented. Readiness of college students to resume studies in an institution used as a quarantine centre for clients suspected of having a highly infectious disease has not been examined in literature. The findings of this study are useful to policy makers and leaders in education sector as normalcy resumes and learning institutions are opened. 


2020 ◽  
Vol 5 (5) ◽  
pp. 44
Author(s):  
Rhoda Nchogu ◽  
Dorcas Ngechu ◽  
Caroline Mramba ◽  
Jane Kima ◽  
Dominic Mutonga

Purpose: The aim of the study was to assess parents’ readiness to allow students resume college after closure due to COVID-19.  Methodology: The study was descriptive cross-sectional design done at KMTC-Mombasa Campus. Participants (parents) were selected using multistage convenient random sampling method, where an assumption of each student having at least one parent was made. The total population of students is 850, 10% of the student population was found to be a representative number for parents. (0.1x850), n=85 with a confidence level of 95%. Response rate was 85.8% (n=73). Data was obtained using interviewer administered questionnaires. Data analysis was done using SPSS and results presented using tables and narrations. Results: 78% (57) parents were willing to allow students resume college immediately while 22 % of parents were reluctant to allow students go back to college. 78% (57) parents were aware of the college being used as a quarantine center whereas 22% (16) were unaware. 92% (67) guardians perceived the college as safe despite its use as a quarantine center, while 8% of the guardians termed the college unsafe. 8% (6) parents who perceived the college as unsafe were being reluctant to allow their children back to college. Perception of safety significantly affected the readiness to allow students back to college with a chi-square value of (p=0.001). Unique contribution to theory, practice, and policy This study investigated readiness of as parents as key stakeholders to allow students to resume college after it had been  utilized as a quarantine centre during the COVID 19 pandemic. Readiness of parents to allow students resume studies in an institution used as a quarantine centre for clients suspected of having a highly infectious disease has not been examined in literature before especially in institutions of higher learning. The findings of this study are useful to policy makers and leaders in education sector as normalcy resumes and learning institutions are opened. 


2021 ◽  
Vol 2 (2) ◽  
pp. 21-29
Author(s):  
Winnie Barawa ◽  
Dr. Marsellah Ogendo ◽  
Rhoda Nchogu ◽  
Rachael Mwende ◽  
Caroline Mramba ◽  
...  

Purpose: The aim of the study was to determine the perception of students towards COVID- 19 mitigation measures that were to be implemented by the institution before and after resumption of studies.Methodology: The study was done at KMTC-Mombasa using descriptive cross-sectional design. Participants (Students) were selected using multi stage sampling and sample size determination was done using Fischers statistical formula at a confidence level of (p=95%), n=253. Data was obtained using a structured questionnaire through online surveys and focused group discussions via online platform. Data analysis was done using SPSS and excel then results were presented using tables and narrations.Results: 60.5% (153) of respondents recommended fumigation of campus facilities especially hostels and classrooms while 11.5% (29) recommended physical distancing measures before reopening. 41.5% (105) of respondents suggested the college should provide masks, sanitization points and adequate hand washing facilities after reopening while 19.4% (49) suggested there should be physical distance indicators in classrooms. The respondents preferred the implementation of preventive measures before resumption (p=0.047). Unique contribution to theory, practice and policy: During pandemic, students are keen on infection prevention and strategies put in place by institution management. Fumigation of college facilities, provision of masks, sanitizers and hand washing points were identified as key measures to be implemented for the safety of the students. After students have resumed they should be enlightened on COVID-19 through   multiple communication channels. COVID-19 Response Committee comprising of college staff and student representatives should be established.


2021 ◽  
Vol 21 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Omar A. Almohammed ◽  
Lama H. Alotaibi ◽  
Shatha A. Ibn Malik

Abstract Background The COVID-19 pandemic has required governments around the world to suspend face-to-face learning for school and university students. Colleges of pharmacy are faced with the challenge of training students in hospitals that are under considerable pressure at this time. The government of Saudi Arabia has moved all classes and training online to limit the spread of the virus. This study describes the experience of the Introductory and Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experience (IPPE and APPE) students and preceptors engaged in the virtual IPPE training. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted to describe and appraise the implemented virtual IPPE training from the experiences of IPPE and APPE students, and their preceptor. The IPPE students described their experiences in close-ended questionnaires, while APPE students in open-ended questionnaires, and the preceptor described the experiences in narrative. The study focused on highlighting the advantages, opportunities, challenges, and shortcomings of the virtual training. Results Two preceptors and seven APPE students participated in the preparation and administration of the virtual training. The IPPE students’ experiences, based on 87 respondents, were mostly positive. Although IPPE students enjoyed the time flexibility that allowed the learning of new skills and reflection on previous experiences, 15% experienced difficulty finding quiet places with a reliable internet connection or had difficulty working on team-based activities. Moreover, some were anxious about the lack of adequate patient-care experience. On the other hand, the APPE students found the experience enriching as they gained experience and understanding of academic workflow, gained skills, and overcame the challenges they faced during this virtual training experience. Conclusions Future training programs should be organized to overcome the challenges and to maximize the benefits of training experiences. Schools of pharmacy may benefit from the training materials constructed, prepared, and administered by APPE students to improve IPPE students’ learning experiences and outcomes.


2019 ◽  
Vol 6 (1) ◽  
pp. 66-71
Author(s):  
Shova Shrestha

Introductions: Safety measures of solid waste collectors are important to prevent occupational health problems. This study was designed to find out knowledge and compliance of safety measures among the solid waste collectors in Kathmandu Valley. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among solid waste collectors of Kathmandu metropolitan city from 12th August to 7th September 2018 by using a structured face to face interview schedule. Data were analysed by chi-square test, Pearson’s correlation and entered into SPSS 16 version. Results: Out of 117 waste collectors interviewed, more than 1/3rd (32.48%) had an adequate level of knowledge, and 1/5th (21.4%) had an adequate level of compliances. There was a weak negative correlation between level of knowledge and compliance on safety measures. Conclusions: One-third of respondents had an adequate level of knowledge about safety measures whereas only one fifth had an adequate level of compliances.


2013 ◽  
Vol 27 (4) ◽  
pp. 327-337 ◽  
Author(s):  
Robin Bailey ◽  
Adrian Wells

Somatosensory amplification (e.g., Barsky, 1992), illness cognition (e.g., Salkovskis & Warwick, 1986), and neuroticism (e.g., Noyes et al., 2003) have all been linked to health anxiety. The first two factors are disorder specific; however, neuroticism is a general vulnerability connected to a range of disorders. In the metacognitive model (Wells, 2009), beliefs about thinking have been implicated in the development of psychopathologies, but little is known about the contribution of individual differences in metacognition to health anxiety, specifically. A cross-sectional design was employed with convenience sampling used for participant selection. Participants (N = 351) completed a questionnaire battery and the following hypotheses were tested: (a) metacognition will show a significant positive correlation with health anxiety and (b) the relationship between metacognition and health anxiety will remain significant after controlling for variables normally associated with health anxiety (i.e., neuroticism, somatosensory amplification, and illness cognition). Hierarchical multiple regression analysis were run to test hypotheses and determine the best independent metacognitive predictors. The results supported each of the hypotheses and revealed three independent metacognitive predictors of health anxiety: “negative metacognitive beliefs about uncontrollability and danger,” “beliefs about the need for thought control,” and “cognitive confidence.” Overall, this study indicates that metacognition may have an important role in health anxiety, and the clinical implications are discussed.


2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Samar A Ahmed ◽  
Nagwa Nashat Hegazy ◽  
Hany W. Abdel Malak ◽  
Cliff W. Kayser ◽  
Noha M Elrafie ◽  
...  

Abstract BackgroundCOVID -19 pandemic pressured medical schools globally to shift to Distance learning (DL) as an alternative way to ensure that the content delivered is satisfactory for student progression.Aim of the workThis work aims at mapping priorities for post-COVID planning for better balance between distance learning and face to face learning.MethodsThis qualitative study aimed to develop a model for utilizing DL using The Polarity Approach for Continuity and Transformation (PACT)™. A virtual mapping session was held with 79 faculty from 19 countries. They worked in small groups to determine upsides and downsides of face-to-face and DL subsequently. An initial polarity map was generated identifying five tension areas; Faculty, Students, Curriculum, Social aspects and Logistics. A 63-item assessment tool was generated based on this map, piloted and then distributed as a self-administered assessment. The outcomes of this assessment were utilized for another mapping session to discuss warning signs and action steps to maintain upsides and avoid downsides of each pole.ResultsParticipants agreed that face-to-face teaching allows them to inspire students and have meaningful connections with them. They also agreed that DL provides a good environment for most students. However, students with financial challenges and special needs may not have equal opportunities to access technology. As regards social issues, participants agreed that face-to-face learning provides a better chance for professionalism through enhanced team-work. Cognitive, communication and clinical skills are best achieved in face-to-face. Participants agreed that logistics for conducting DL are much more complicated when compared to face-to-face learning. Participants identified around 10 warning signs for each method that need to be continuously monitored in order to minimize the drawbacks of over focusing on one pole at the expense of the other. Action steps were determined to ensure optimized use of in either method.ConclusionIn order to plan for the future, we need to understand the dynamics of education within the context of polarities. Educators need to understand that the choice of DL, although was imposed as a no-alternative solution during the COVID era, yet it has always existed as a possible alternative and will continue to exist after this era. The value of polarity mapping and leveraging allows us to maximize the benefit of each method and guide educators' decisions to minimize the downsides for the good of the learning process.


2020 ◽  
Vol 20 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Samar A. Ahmed ◽  
Nagwa N. Hegazy ◽  
Hany W. Abdel Malak ◽  
W. Cliff Kayser ◽  
Noha M. Elrafie ◽  
...  

Abstract Background COVID − 19 pandemic pressured medical schools globally to shift to Distance learning (DL) as an alternative way to ensure that the content delivered is satisfactory for student progression. Aim of the work This work aims at mapping priorities for post-COVID planning for better balance between distance learning and face to face learning. Methods This qualitative study aimed to develop a model for utilizing DL using The Polarity Approach for Continuity and Transformation (PACT)™. A virtual mapping session was held with 79 faculty from 19 countries. They worked in small groups to determine upsides and downsides of face-to-face and DL subsequently. An initial polarity map was generated identifying five tension areas; Faculty, Students, Curriculum, Social aspects and Logistics. A 63-item assessment tool was generated based on this map, piloted and then distributed as a self-administered assessment. The outcomes of this assessment were utilized for another mapping session to discuss warning signs and action steps to maintain upsides and avoid downsides of each pole. Results Participants agreed that face-to-face teaching allows them to inspire students and have meaningful connections with them. They also agreed that DL provides a good environment for most students. However, students with financial challenges and special needs may not have equal opportunities to access technology. As regards social issues, participants agreed that face-to-face learning provides a better chance for professionalism through enhanced team-work. Cognitive, communication and clinical skills are best achieved in face-to-face. Participants agreed that logistics for conducting DL are much more complicated when compared to face-to-face learning. Participants identified around 10 warning signs for each method that need to be continuously monitored in order to minimize the drawbacks of over focusing on one pole at the expense of the other. Action steps were determined to ensure optimized use of in either method. Conclusion In order to plan for the future, we need to understand the dynamics of education within the context of polarities. Educators need to understand that the choice of DL, although was imposed as a no-alternative solution during the COVID era, yet it has always existed as a possible alternative and will continue to exist after this era. The value of polarity mapping and leveraging allows us to maximize the benefit of each method and guide educators’ decisions to minimize the downsides for the good of the learning process.


2021 ◽  
Vol 7 (1) ◽  
pp. 11
Author(s):  
Zubaida Hassan ◽  
Aisha Shitu Sa’id ◽  
Hassan Adamu Mohammed

Purpose: In Nigeria, the current COVID-19 Pandemic stands-still virtually all formal learning activities, especially in Government owned institutions. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the perception and readiness of Nigerians on adapting Distance e-Learning option during and even after the COVID-19 Pandemic. Methodology: The study applied a quantitative cross-sectional design approach. A closed-ended e-questionnaire was designed using google form and distributed in a snowball fashion-wise via online platforms. Three categories of the audience were targeted: teachers, students and parents. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze responses. ANOVA was used to analyze the collective decision across the three categories. Findings: The findings revealed that there is no difference amongst the three groups in their final decisions on willingness to adapt (F (0.187), p-value 0.83), and kick-start distance learning (F (0.469), p-value 0.63). Poor internet infrastructure and unstable electricity supply were some of the challenges identified. Unique contribution to Theory, Practice, and Policy: The study highlights the willingness of Nigerians in adapting distance e-learning approach as a viable alternative to traditional face-face learning amidst COVID-19 Pandemic and beyond. Administrative involvements are crucial to actualizing this educational dream of Nigerians.


2021 ◽  
Vol 11 (1) ◽  
pp. 51-66
Author(s):  
Mahasti Khakpour ◽  
Azar Khorshahi ◽  
Mohammad Reza Pakravan Charvadeh ◽  
Nasrin Omidvar ◽  
Rachel Engler-Stringer ◽  
...  

Afghan refugees are one of the most vulnerable migrant groups in terms of food insecurity status around the world. We aimed to investigate the association between Afghan protracted refugees' food insecurity and its socio– economic determinants in Mashhad, Iran. In a cross– sectional design, information was gathered through face– to– face interviews with 299 Afghan main income earners or his/her representative in Golshar district, Mashhad, Iran. In a quantitative approach, the association of socio– economic factors with food insecurity was assessed. The results showed that less than 1% of all the households were food secure, 69.2% of those with children and 47.5% of those with no child faced severe food insecurity. Class of households' income, residency status and personal dwelling were significantly associated with severe food insecurity of Afghan refugees. Determining effective socio– economic factors to formulate appropriate policies and practices is not only necessary but also inevitable to assure sustainable food security for refugees.


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