Iran Journal of Nursing

  Background & Aim: The main goal of medical education is preparing experts in health care fields. Medical education should answer the population needs and develop in accordance with technology changes. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of active education on knowledge of health care workers of Golestan University of Medical Sciences about avian influenza.

  Material & Method: In 2005-2006, this semi-experimental study was conducted through before-after design . At the beginning, knowledge of the samples regarding to avian influenza was evaluated with self-administered questionnaire. After intervention (active participation in lectures and group workshops) the questionnaires were distributed once again. Data were analysed by non-parametric tests (Wilcoxon, Mann-Whitney, Kruskal-Wallis) to evaluate the effect of active education on knowledge about Avian Influenza.

 Results: The mean score of knowledge increased significantly after educational intervention (P-value< 0.001). Previous information was significantly related to pretest scores. The mean score of knowledge was not significantly related to gender and age.

  Conclusion: Educational workshops are effective in increasing knowledge of healthcare workers about avian influanza. While educational programs of the mass media are effective knowledge, it doesn't meet the special educational needs in the field of health.