Types of Training Models  

The Southwest Interdisciplinary Research Center (SIRC), Arizona State University Downtown Phoenix Campus, offers curriculum training and trainer-of-trainers workshops on keepin’ it REAL, the culturally-grounded resistance strategies curriculum recognized by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) as a national Model Program for middle school students.

1) keepin’ it REAL Curriculum Training Workshop

In this workshop, participants become familiar with the keepin’ it REAL curriculum.  They learn about the research behind the curriculum and participate in activities reflective of those found in the curriculum, including (a) small group cooperative learning and interaction, (b) whole group discussions, (c) presentations, (d) role plays, and (e) games.  Attendees complete exercises targeting culture to help them understand what makes keepin’ it REAL a culturally-based curriculum and how those elements help students recognize and value the strengths of their personal cultural background, especially as related to resisting substance use.

The workshop emphasizes the use of narratives and the context of culture, both underlying theoretical foundations of the curriculum.  In addition, training goals emphasize in-depth knowledge of the curriculum:  the skills and concepts taught in each lesson, facilitation skills to promote students learning and engagement, and the use of resources available as they implement the curriculum.  Participants learn that a prevention curriculum can be instructionally engaging while theory-driven and academically rigorous.

For scheduling and pricing information, please contact Dr. Patricia Dustman, Implementation Director for SIRC at 602-496-0700 or Patricia.Dustman@asu.edu

2) keepin’ it REAL Trainer of Trainers Workshop  

In this workshop, participants learn how to lead, support, and coach the teachers and trainers from their district/organization who will be teaching the curriculum.  They participate in activities that provide (a) background information about the keepin’ it REAL project and curriculum, (b) an overview of the training program, (c) instructions on set-up and logistics for conducting training, and (d) step-by-step instructions on leading participants through the curriculum.  Attendees also receive transparencies and/or slides to use as they conduct the training, masters of the participants’ handouts, including agendas and workshop evaluation forms, tips on facilitating a successful workshop and introductory and grouping activities to use to build community while teaching.

Participants must have completed the curriculum training as a prerequisite to attending this workshop.

For scheduling and pricing information, please contact Dr. Patricia Dustman, Implementation Director for SIRC at: 602-496-0700 or Patricia.Dustman@asu.edu