Instructional Base

Most research-based parent training programs have been developed by scientist-practitioners with training in clinical psychology or a closely related field. PIO was developed by scientist-practitioners in close partnership not only with practitioners working in the field, but also with professionals with specific training and experience in instructional design and curriculum development.

Adult Learning Theory. Parenting Inside Out is grounded in adult learning theory and is designed specifi cally for the adult learner. PIO focuses on real-life, problem-oriented topics, skills training, and cooperative learning processes in which adult learners are encouraged to share and receive from the rich pool of knowledge and experiences each learner brings to the classroom. These processes include large and small group discussions of case studies, critical incident analysis, role-play practice, team projects, and collaborative peer review.

Learner-Centered. PIO employs a learner-centered design. This means that throughout the program, the parent educator, or “coach”, and learner collaborate in the development of learning goals and methods for attaining those goals. A collaborative mode of instruction reduces attrition, lowers learner resistance, and increases motivation, communication, and transfer of learning. Researchers have found that a learner-centered teaching style is more effective in raising achievement levels than a educator-center teaching style, regardless of the subject area being taught.

Outcomes-Based Instructional Design. Outcomes-based models of instruction, as opposed to content-based or competency-based models, focus on problemcentered, real-life adult roles rather than factual knowledge or discrete skills learning. PIO utilizes an outcomes based design because adult learners tend to be most interested in solving problems that relate to day-to-day life. The learning activities of PIO are designed to enhance functioning within the real-life community roles of prosocial parent, employee, citizen, and life-long learner.