Evaluation of psychology-based training for improving interoperability in the emergency services: A comparison of online and in-person delivery methods
International Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction · 2025-07-23 · Quasi-experimental
Abstract
Recent research highlights the need for a psychological understanding of interoperability in multi-agency emergency response to address ongoing issues and prevent future problems. We developed a psychology-based training to improve interoperability using theory and evidence from the Social Identity Approach. We evaluated its effectiveness and optimal delivery method with 65 emergency responders from UK Police ( N =8), Fire and Rescue ( N =12), and Ambulance ( N =45) Services. Participants completed the training online ( N =28), or in-person ( N =37), with seven online participants completing follow-up interviews. In terms of participant satisfaction, the training was positively received and recommended by participants. They valued the psychological elements but stressed the need for accessible presentation. Interviewees preferred in-person training, but survey data showed no difference in participant satisfaction between delivery methods. In terms of knowledge gain, both delivery methods increased confidence in multi-agency teamwork, though in-person training better enhanced knowledge of specific collaborative actions. Participants highlighted the importance of understanding responders’ motivations, especially regarding mandatory training. This evaluation provides insights into effective training methods and the integration of psychology into emergency service training programmes, with practical implications discussed.
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Tags
Interagency collaboration · Paramedics & EMTs · Fire service & police · Teamwork & human factors
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