E-learning: who uses it and what difference does it make?

Int J Palliat Nurs. 2019 Oct 2;25(10):482-493. doi: 10.12968/ijpn.2019.25.10.482.

Abstract

Background: CaseSearch 'My Learning' e-learning modules were designed to remind clinicians and practitioners about the role of evidence in practice and demonstrate how to find relevant evidence to make a difference in clinical care. This study aims to describe the role of the modules and their uptake, and determine whether the modules influenced the learners' palliative care practice and whether the modules were easy to use.

Method: Two sets of questions were designed to capture data to evaluate the modules.

Findings: The modules supported the awareness and use of evidence by health professionals. The modules contribute to ongoing professional development for practitioners and can improve palliative care practice.

Conclusion: It is possible to collect meaningful data that contributes to understanding who uses e-learning resources and how useful healthcare professionals find them.

Keywords: Continuing professional development; E-learning; Palliative care; Practice change.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Computer-Assisted Instruction / methods*
  • Computer-Assisted Instruction / statistics & numerical data*
  • Female
  • Health Personnel / education*
  • Health Personnel / statistics & numerical data*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Palliative Care / standards*
  • Practice Guidelines as Topic
  • Staff Development / methods*
  • Staff Development / statistics & numerical data*