Abstract
BACKGROUND: Training of Trainers Program that combines both theoretical and practical components and effectively enhance educators’ competencies in interprofessional education are rarely encountered. This study aimed to design and evaluate a Training of Trainers Program in Interprofessional Education intended to enhance participants’ awareness, knowledge, and self-perceived competencies related to the design, implementation, and improvements of interprofessional education practices among healthcare educators. METHODS: The study was planned and conducted between June 2023 and March 2024. The two-phase Training of Trainers Program (TTP) was implemented between February 20 and 24, 2024. The first phase consisted of three-day online interactive theoretical training. Two-day face-to-face practical training was the second phase of the TTP which included interactive studies with large groups and practical activities in professional skills rooms with small groups. The practical training was based on various scenarios created by the researchers themselves. Following the TTP, all participants were assessed using a demographic data form, reflection assignment, group assignment, and multiple-choice questions. RESULTS: The TTP was found to be effective and participants benefited from the TTP. The TTP significantly increased participants’ competencies across all measured dimensions, including roles-responsibilities; team and teamwork; IPE communication; lifelong learner; collaborative leadership; relationships with patients and recognizing their needs; and ethics (p = 0.001). Participants’ responses to the satisfaction questionnaire showed that the program generally provided high satisfaction. High scores were given to areas, such as the enrollment process, training content, effectiveness of the trainers, and overall program satisfaction. Participants also highlighted the program’s comprehensive content, applied teaching strategies, and trainer competencies, while only one participant suggested improving time management. CONCLUSION: The TTP provide important improvement in participants’ competencies The TTP, which was developed by blending both online and face-to-face education, is a successful program in both developing interprofessional competences and reaching the goals. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12909-025-07743-1.