Feasibility of a Brief Problem-Solving Training for 4-H Center Summer Staff: Linking Needs to Implementation

This multi-phased study assessed stakeholder needs and provided training for summer camp staff, a collaboration between a university and community organization. Phases I through III established the collaboration through trainings for 4-H extension agents and teen counselors. Phase IVa assessed the perceived training needs of 41 adult summer camp staff as they relate to interpersonal difficulties experienced in the camp setting. Phase IVb included adaptation of evidence-based practices to target the needs indicated by staff as well as training competencies required by 4-H policy. 4-H Center Staff completed pre-training, post-training, and follow-up questionnaires. Measurement of training efficacy was assessed using mixed-methods analyses to determine feasibility by measuring overall training satisfaction, changes in confidence, and knowledge of problem solving techniques. Results of Phase IVa informed the creation of a novel training paradigm (Phase IVb). Participants indicated high satisfaction in the training program and significantly improved on knowledge of problem solving techniques, willingness to approach difficult problems, and self-efficacy to implement problem solving techniques. Preliminary results from follow-up questionnaires revealed some continued use of training materials throughout camp experience. Implications for future trainings and continued collaborations are suggested.