There is ample evidence, both study-based and anecdotal, which supports the need for the development of innovative methods of providing nutrition education to healthcare professionals, at their convenience. The primary intent of this project was to develop a web-based educational module, offering a unique opportunity for health professionals, to increase their knowledge of nutrition support and earn Continuing Education Units required for their professional development and accreditation. WebCT was the courseware program used to facilitate the organization of the course material onto the internet. The use of its many user-friendly features such as: navigation tools, self-evaluation tools, auto-marked quizzes, progress tracking, repeat access, self-pacing and technical support will be discussed in terms of the development of this educational module. The module is entitled,"Metabolic complications from overfeeding macronutrients to the critically ill adult," and was developed as a one-hour, online course for asynchronous, independent study. It has undergone evaluation by peer-reviewers who have expertise in the content area and who are independent of the development of the module. The online module was implemented and evaluated during the Spring, 2001 semester. This new web-based curricula delivery system provides an innovative solution to meet the need for accurate nutrition information and interdisciplinary learning in preparation for certification and development of advanced practice knowledge and serves as a model for other programs that would lend themselves to a similar methodology. Funds for the initial module were provided by the University of Maryland Faculty Development. See www.agnr.umd.edu/users/ctuttle/conted.html
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this session the participant will be able to: 1. Apply distance learning concepts to the online environment. 2. Identify courseware appropriate for the development of similar distance learning applications.
Keywords: Computer-Assisted, Distance Learning
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: University of Maryland, Department of Nutrition and Food Science
Disclosure not received
Relationship: Not Received.