About our Fidelity Coaching Tools

Program drift occurs when we implement an evidence-based program into real life contexts, and over time. There are things that need to be adapted to suit our context but what are the features that should not be altered to make sure it remains effective?

The fidelity tools are a check list for both self-reflection and peer feedback to enable best practice. The tools have been adapted from ones developed for Stepping On in the US.   Key elements of the program were determined through an expert review and a modified Delphi technique was used to determine consensus of the essential and important elements (Mahoney 2016; 2017).

Download the Stepping On Fidelity Coaching tool (Australia) (PDF)

How can they be used?

Complete the tool yourself at the end of a session. Ask an experienced Stepping On facilitator to observe a session. You can both complete and then discuss afterwards.

Be sure to consider what key elements were implemented, what worked well, and what could be done differently. Quality feedback is a reflective process, whether by self, by or with another.

Download the Guide to using the tool (PDF)

Key elements – the top endorsements:

• Engage people in what is meaningful and contextual
• Use plain language
• Develop trust
• Sense of ownership for the participants
• The importance of reflecting and evaluating
• Reinforce accomplishments
• Follow through
• Use optimism and positive talk
• Link strategies and skills to personal goals
• Understands how to progress the exercises, links to falls
• Training in cues to self-monitor exercise, group leader

Download the full list of Key Elements (PDF)

Reference

• Mahoney JE, Clemson L, Schlotthauer A, Mack KA, Shea T, Gobel V, Cech S: Modified Delphi Consensus to Suggest Key Elements of Stepping On Falls Prevention Program. Frontiers in Public Health 2017, 5(21).