Abstract

E-learning is a tool use to deliver continued professional education to health professionals. However, distance- or E-learning provides the lecturer with a challenging task: to provide a similar environment in the on-line classroom as that provided on-campus. The aim was to provide distance learners with a stimulating and interesting learning environment, to enhance the learning process and provide them with a forum for discussion and self-directed learning.New lectures were designed using a Virtual Learning Environment (WebCT) including animated diagrams, hyper-linked web addresses, self-assessment quizzes, communication tools (email and discussion boards). To determine how well the new format was received 3 student questionnaires were employed in addition to group and telephone interviews. Results indicate that the new method of presentation was very well received by the majority of students; however a minority of students made no use of the interactive component.