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WebCT: integrating computer-mediated communication and resource delivery into a new problem-based curriculum.
Michelle McLean1, Kathy Murrell
1Department of Physiology, Nelson R. Mandela School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Natal, Durban, South Africa. mcleanm@nu.ac.za
The Journal of Audiovisual Media in Medicine
|May 25, 2002
Summary
WebCT (Web Course Tools) enhanced medical education through a problem-based learning curriculum. Students valued its communication and digital resource delivery, regardless of computer literacy.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Educational Technology
- Health Sciences
Background:
- The Nelson R. Mandela School of Medicine implemented a problem-based, student-centred curriculum in 2001.
- WebCT (Web Course Tools) was adopted as the front-end software for delivering internet-based educational materials.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate student feedback on the value of WebCT within their medical curriculum.
- To assess the effectiveness of WebCT for delivering digitized educational content.
Main Methods:
- An anonymous survey was administered to students after completing the first module.
- Student responses were analyzed regarding their experience with WebCT features.
Main Results:
- Students reported positive experiences with WebCT's communication tools (staff-student and student-student).
- The platform's resources and URL delivery were highly valued by students, irrespective of their computer literacy.
- WebCT facilitated the delivery of various digital materials like images, videos, and presentations.
Conclusions:
- WebCT proved valuable in supporting a problem-based learning curriculum at the medical school.
- The platform is likely to be integrated further into the MBChB program, especially for off-campus learning and clinical placements.