ETR Associates Receives NIMH Research Grant

ETR Associates and Monarch Media, Inc., have received a Small Business Innovative Research (SBIR) grant from the National Institute on Mental Health (NIMH). The Small Business Innovation Program ensures that the nation's small, high-tech, innovative businesses are a significant part of the federal government's research and development efforts. The project, titled RTRWorks!, will develop online training to the award-winning curriculum Reducing The Risk (RTR). The training will prepare school teachers (grades 9-12) to teach RTR effectively -- lowering students risk for pregnancy, HIV and other STDs.

RTR is a 16-lesson, classroom-based curriculum that delays the onset of intercourse and reduces unprotected sex among high-school-age youth. RTR goes beyond the facts about abstinence and protection. It's a powerful, skills-based approach to preventing risky sexual behaviors among teens. The RTRWorks! Online Training will provide a convenient and cost-effective alternative to face-to-face teacher training and will have 24/7 access to important information about RTR, including its theoretical foundations, teaching tips for each lesson, and recommendations for adapting the curriculum for specific populations. Teachers will also receive online collegial support and technical assistance. The RTRWorks! Online Training will include the latest advances in technology and eLearning practice to teach the behavioral skills vital to the success of the curriculum, such as how to answer sensitive questions, manage role plays and lead group discussions. The online training will be evaluated for effectiveness with 230 educators across the United States in a randomized controlled trial. Teachers are needed to teach RTR as part of the study, and will receive free materials ($200 value) and a $400 stipend. If interested contact the RTRWorks! project at 877-316-7036 or rtrworksproject@etr.org.