Child Protection Training Academy (CPTA)
What is the CPTA?
The DCFS Child Protection Training Academy at ISU is an experiential learning program for child welfare professionals using simulation-based learning. Simulations allow professionals to apply new knowledge and skills using real-life scenarios. This program grew out of a legislative requirement for DCFS to develop sites for experiential learning to bridge the gap between policy and practice, increase worker engagement, and accelerate learning (PA-99-0348). The DCFS program launched in 2016 and currenly includes training sites led by UIUC in Chicago, and NIU in DeKalb. Illinois State University is the third site with a fourth side expected to launch soon at SIU Carbondale.
Why Sim Training matters
Experiential learning prepares the professional learner through opportunities for reflection and critical analysis. DCFS staff are provided with opportunities to develop their engagement skills with families while working to identify strengths and determine risk factors that may place children at risk. The professional is required to achieve a minimum standard of competence to receive certification.
What have we learned?
The program is independently evaluated by the University of Illinois Urbana; Dr. Theodore Cross, Principal Investigator. Staff complete daily surveys to assess their confidence during the 5 days of the simulation experience across 13 skills. Findings indicate statistically significant growth in all areas over the course of the week-long training.
Summary:
ISU has partnered over the years with the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services through the Center for Child Welfare and Adoption Studies, the Permanency Enhancement Project and the DCFS Youth-in-College programs. This longstanding commitment to the professional development of child welfare professionals, child welfare research, and promotion of equity for the children and families served by the child welfare system serves as the basis for this new endeavor to provide simulation experiences for child welfare professionals.
The University is committed to using this opportunity to support workforce development and to use the simulation experience to promote skill development and confidence in early career professionals.
CPTA Simulation Lab
614 Ogelsby Ave., Normal IL
The CPTA Simulation Lab entrance is located in the building at the back of the complex. This map provides directions to parking for the complex and those visiting the Simulation Center will need to walk around the building.