Effectiveness of an LGBTQ+ e-learning module for social workers: a randomized controlled trial

Purpose: To evaluate the effectiveness of an e-learning training module for improving children's social workers’ knowledge of, and attitudes toward, LGBTQ+ young people.

Methods: A pragmatic randomized, CONSORT-compliant controlled trial to compare an intervention group ( N = 304) with a business-as-usual comparison group ( N = 310). After attrition, the analysis included 188 (intervention) and 278 (comparison) participants. The main outcome measures were the Heteronormative Attitudes and Beliefs Scale and a perceived LGBTQ+ knowledge measure, controlling for several covariates. Results: A significant effect of intervention on both outcome measures, using several rigorous analysis approaches and missing data imputation methods. Participants who undertook the training decreased their heteronormative attitudes and beliefs and increased their perceived LGBTQ+ knowledge compared to business as usual.

Conclusion: This study demonstrates the effectiveness of an e-learning training intervention in improving knowledge of, and attitudes toward, LGBTQ+ young people. Implications for research, practice, and policy are outlined.