Abstract:

Natural disasters, terrorist attacks, and other acts of mass violence can result in traumatic consequences for individuals, families, and ultimately communities. This overarching effect from person to community necessitates an integrated approach consistent with Hobfoll’s et al. (2007) five intervention principles. This presentation will examine an instructional online format covering intervention with first responders and others who have experienced mass trauma from the point of initial contact through continuing follow-up by multidisciplinary counseling resources. It will also include attention to those responders who suffer secondary effects such as difficulties to continue working in emergency services. The online format includes simulations (e.g., similar to the Boston Marathon Bombing, 2013), logistics, hospital surge capacities, triaging and long-term support. A discussion of readings, assignments, case studies and interactive group methodologies will be examined. This online approach facilitates the delivery of educational content of mass trauma and further the pedagogy trauma intervention for the student and service providers involved in homeland security. In addition, the presentation will demonstrate a pedagogical framework for the delivery of online educational content to aid in effective training and preparation of Homeland Security first responders to face critical incidents requiring mass trauma intervention.

Keywords:

Emergency responder, pedagogy, intervention.