This study tests an online training platform for peer recovery support specialists, people in recovery who support others with alcohol and other substance use problems. It compares the platform with standard live training on core peer recovery skills, rated by trained raters from a recorded interview, and on knowledge, usability, and intention to use the platform. Training conditions were first recruited separately. Since an IRB-approved change in August 2026, new participants are randomly assigned to either hybrid platform training or standard live training. A self-paced platform group and a Maryland group that used a version of the platform localized for that state are reported as non-randomized comparison groups. The study is Phase II of an SBIR Fast-Track award from the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism.
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Parallel
Training-as-Usual (TAU)
BehavioralStandard live, instructor-led training course from the Connecticut Community for Addiction Recovery (CCAR), with no digital platform modules.
TDPP-A (Asynchronous Platform)
BehavioralParticipants engage with the Thrive Digital Peer Platform (TDPP), a fully asynchronous, self-paced online training program. The content includes 11 interactive modules structured using the Connect → Grow → Apply (CGA) learning framework, featuring peer stories, behavioral exercises, and scenario-based assessments.
TDPP-Z (Hybrid)
BehavioralThe self-paced TDPP modules plus an interactive roleplay practice component and recorded instructor video. This replaced three live, facilitator-led videoconference sessions in August 2026.
Localized TDPP (Maryland)
BehavioralThe self-paced TDPP content localized for Maryland peer recovery support specialists.
Skill and Adherence Score, Modified Yale Adherence and Competence Scale II (YACS-II)
Recorded post-training behavioral interview using standardized peer recovery scenarios, scored by two trained raters blinded to training condition using the Yale Adherence and Competence Scale II modified for peer recovery support. Adherence (frequency and extensiveness) and skill level are each rated from 1 to 7, and the raters' scores are averaged. Higher scores mean better adherence and skill.
System Usability Scale (SUS) Score
Self-reported usability on the 10-item System Usability Scale, scored by the standard method on a 0 to 100 scale. Higher scores mean better usability. Completed by participants in the platform conditions.
Knowledge Test Score, Change From Baseline
10-item multiple-choice test on core principles of professionalism in peer recovery coaching, given before and after training. Scores range from 0 to 10. Higher scores mean more knowledge.
Intention to Use, Modified UTAUT-2 Behavioral Intention
Behavioral intention (intention to use the platform) items from a modified Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology 2 (UTAUT-2) questionnaire, each rated from 1 (strongly disagree) to 7 (strongly agree) and averaged. Higher scores mean greater intention to use. Completed by participants in the platform conditions.
Self-Reported Satisfaction
Participant-reported satisfaction with the training experience, assessed via a Likert-scale item ("How satisfied were you with the training experience overall?"). Scores range from 1 (not satisfied) to 5 (very satisfied).
Qualitative Feedback (Open-Ended Exit Interview)
Participant reflections on their training experience, collected through a structured exit interview or open-text response field. Thematic content analysis will be used to identify emergent themes related to learning impact, perceived professionalism, and platform usability.
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Thrive Digital Health, LLC
Lead sponsor
National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA)
Collaborator
