Development, implementation and pilot evaluation of a collaborative model to teach health

In order to maintain competency in rapidly changing health care systems, and meet the challenge of overcoming traditional barriers to continuing education, college students need access to innovative educational delivery methods. The purpose of this project is to evaluate the impact of technology integration on the overall instructional quality and students' learning experience, by redesigning three graduate courses. These courses address current health problems such as obesity, eating disorders and diabetes, and challenging concepts such as pathophysiological mechanisms and processes. The main instructional objective is to promote active and collaborative learning and enhance students' critical thinking skills. A variety of interactive health communication methods are being used, such as newly designed Webct courses that include course materials and asynchronous on-line discussions mediated by a facilitator, and access to a variety of multimedia resources. The project strives to provide a common generic platform for design/creation, management, evaluation and sharing of health information. Evaluations in all three courses shows that students regarded the new approach as easy to use, user-friendly, engaging and of educational value. A significant degree of receptivity to greater involvement in technology-enhanced curriculum products was also evident. Examples of integrated technology into instruction, field experiences, and assessments along with changes that occurred as a result of the initial feedback will be presented. The new approach was proven highly effecitve and emphasized interactive methods, integration of technology in problem solving related to health behavior change activities. Implication for future application of technology into health classes will be addressed.