•  
  •  
 

Abstract

Background: The Public Health Nursing (PHN) Section of the Michigan Public Health Association (MPHA) works to improve public health and public health nursing practice in Michigan. In 2021, the PHN Section initiated virtual book discussions to engage public health professionals in meaningful discussion about topics of critical importance to public health and public health nursing; provide continuing education contact hours; and recruit new section members. Methods: The discussions are conducted virtually four times per year. A moderator introduces each book and leads the one-hour discussion. As an added incentive to read the books, the PHN Section sends a limited number of complimentary books to individuals who request them on a first-come, first-served basis. Results: Attendance varied from 6 to 40 people from a variety of public health disciplines. Outcomes were analyzed using a retrospective mixed method focused on learner responses. A pre/post Likert-scale questionnaire measured participant-reported confidence levels in application of learned concepts. Key findings include learner-reported confidence increased by 35.3% between pre- and post-assessments for application of learned concepts. Conclusion: Book discussions provide a stimulating method for adult learners to engage in public health issues in a collegial sharing format. Deeper knowledge of current public health issues provides Michigan residents with a more informed workforce.

Download

Share

COinS