Practice Makes Perfect: A Systematic Approach to Hybrid Sanitation Training Using the Tell, Show, Do Method

Sanitation is cited as one of the leading areas of non-conformance in food safety inspection reports. There is a strong need for sanitation training that builds confidence and job task competency. Educators at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, the University of Maine, and North Carolina State University developed a tiered training program to provide a holistic approach to sanitation training. This program offers six online, self-paced modules that break down the core components of a sanitation program (Tell), and in-person demonstrations of cleaning, verification of cleaning, and sanitation concepts (Show) with experts while allowing participants to practice what they have learned in a low-stakes environment (Do). The effectiveness of the learning model was assessed using focus groups and written evaluations. Focus groups were conducted after the in-person program concluded to evaluate its effectiveness and identify areas for improvement. Written evaluations (which were given pre- and post-in-person programs) had participants rank their change in preparedness in sanitation-related topics from pre- to post-in-person program. Post-program focus group evaluations suggest that the “Tell, Show, Do” model effectively develops confidence in sanitation knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors. Written evaluations suggest an overall increase in preparedness across all sanitation-related categories from pre- to post-program.