CELT: a computerised evaluative learning tool for continuing professional development.

Full Abstract

OBJECTIVES:
To evaluate a computerised, evaluative learning tool (CELT) designed to encourage self-directed learning and help users make changes in practice following learning. The study aimed to evaluate how CELT was used and to ascertain user perceptions of the program.

DESIGN:
Qualitative analysis of interviews and quantitative analysis of entries made using the software.

SETTING AND SUBJECTS:
West of Scotland region, comprising six Health Board areas with a total of 2176 general practitioners (GPs), 39 of whom took part in the study.

RESULTS:
Of the 39 GPs who started on the project, 34 used CELT. Of these 34, 28 GPs sent in files and six did not. Of the 28 GPs who sent in files, 25 entered data and 76% (22/29) considered the program easy to use. The program was used 7 days a week during the day and night. It raised participants' awareness of the educational value of everyday experiences and led to increased thought about learning. In 41% (45/111) of entries there was evidence that some action had been initiated by users as a result of learning.

CONCLUSIONS:
CELT was designed to encourage self-directed learning and help users make changes in practice following learning. The study has shown that it can be used to deliver individual continuing professional development. It encourages a disciplined approach to learning, promotes thought about learning needs and increases the ability of GPs to learn from everyday experiences. In some instances, users were able to apply what had been learned.

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Author information

Author/s: Kelly, Diane R (DR); MacKay, Linda (L);

Affiliation: Department of Postgraduate Medical Education, Horselethill Road, Glasgow, GL2 9LX, UK. diane.kelly(-atsign-)scpmde.scot.nhs.uk

Journal and publication information

Publication Type: Evaluation Studies; Journal Article; Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

Journal: Medical education (Med Educ), published in England. (Language: eng)

Reference: 2003-Apr; vol 37 (issue 4) : pp 358-67

Dates: Created 2003/03/25; Completed 2003/05/07; Revised 2006/11/15;

PMID: 12654121, status: MEDLINE (last retrieval date: 11/6/2008)

Sourced from the National Library of Medicine. Abstract text and other information may be subject to copyright.

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MeSH headings (categories)

This article was linked to the MESH Headings shown below.

Adult
Aged
Computer-Assisted Instruction - methods
Education, Medical, Continuing - methods; standards
Female
Humans

Learning
Male
Middle Aged
Professional Competence - standards
Scotland
Software

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