Speaker Reflection: Amanda Borosh
Amanda Borosh presented a workshop titled “Using Implementation Science and Organizational Behavior Management to Support the Adoption, Implementation, and Sustainability of Evidence-based Practices in K-12 Education. Amanda is a licensed special education teacher, board certified behavior analyst, and 3rd year doctoral student in special education at Purdue University.
Amanda presented many interesting points about the disconnect between research and practice in the K12 space while also making the topic relevant to corporate learning. I enjoyed learning about the implementation stages and took home some important messages about implementing human performance technology and closing the gap between research and practical implementation.
Implementation Stages
Intentional, systematic approach is the key to successful implementation. This process can take 2-4 years and is not meant to be a “quick fix”. (Bertram, 2015)
Using a slow and systematic approach rooted in a plan that meets the mission of an organization is often more effective than rushing into decisions and a lack of intentional implementation and follow-up. While the process can take longer to get to an end result, the four phases of implementation facilitate evidence-based decisions and can lead to improved outcomes. In using this method, it is important that leadership buys into the methods and sees vision for the long game. It is also key to build trust in the process with key stakeholders.
I thoroughly enjoyed this workshop and would love to dive deeper into this topic. With my background in clinical research, I have seen firsthand the disconnect between lab research and practical implementation in the field. I would enjoy working in a similar position, as I have a passion for problem solving, investigating, applying research, and analyzing data. One of my strengths is translating research and scientific papers into a “so what” for practicing clinicians. I could see this skill transferring to a role in human performance technology.
K12 schools and corporate organizations can benefit from implementing this method. I would encourage instructional designers, human performance experts, and organizations to work together and explore the possibilities that this philosophy can provide.
Bertram, R., Blase, K., & Fixsen, D. (2015). Improving programs and outcomes: implementation frameworks and organization change. Research on Social Work Practice, 25(4), 477-487. DOI: 10.1177/1049731514537687