Purpose: To review the evidence on distance learning (DL) in public health in order to determine the appropriate role of DL in the continuing education of public health professionals. Methods : Published papers on the effectiveness of DL were located by searching MEDLINE, the Education Resources Center database, the Internet, conference proceedings, and professional and academic contacts. These papers were reviewed and classified according to type of DL methodology such as research-based or review papers or a comparison between DL to traditional learning (TL) methods. Results: There are no significant differences in terms of skills and knowledge learning between DL and TL. However, satisfaction was less among DL students. Most of the articles had methodological weaknesses such as small sample size, lack of comparison group, inadequate statistical power, no pre-test/post-test comparison of skills, and knowledge. Only three articles had cost-effectiveness data. Conclusions : Distance learning in all its modalities appears to be as effective for training public health professionals as traditional classroom training for acquisition as knowledge and quantitative skills. The value of distance learning for communication and leadership skills has yet to be determined. Further evaluation is needed to determine the optimal role for distance learning and its cost-effectiveness.
Learning Objectives: 1. Review the evidence on distance learning (DL) in public health. 2. Determine the appropriate role of DL in the continuing education of public health professionals
Keywords: Health Education, Distance Learning
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: University of California, Berkeley
I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Relationship: employment