Online learning in paediatrics: a student-led web-based learning modality.

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Pediatrics
• E-learning

Background:

• Undergraduate medical education is transitioning to self-directed learning models.
• Traditional didactic methods are being supplemented by e-learning for personalized application of principles.
• Paediatric education at the University of Alberta faces challenges with longitudinal teaching, leaving students with foundational knowledge gaps upon clinical clerkship.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate PedsCases, a student-driven e-learning website, to address learning outcome gaps in paediatric education.
• To provide a comprehensive, interactive, and self-directed learning resource for medical students in paediatrics.

Main Methods:

• PedsCases was created as an open-access, peer-reviewed e-learning tool by students and reviewed by paediatricians.
• The platform incorporates diverse learning modalities including cases, quizzes, podcasts, and videos.
• Content is student-generated and validated for accuracy and usefulness.

Main Results:

• After 17 months, PedsCases features 216 questions, 19 cases, 11 quizzes, 11 podcasts, and 2 videos.
• The website has attracted 2148 unique visitors from 73 countries.
• PedsCases ranks among the top five search engine results for 'paediatrics for medical students'.

Conclusions:

• PedsCases serves as a collaborative, student-led resource fostering active, self-directed learning in paediatrics.
• The platform disseminates evidence-based, clinically relevant knowledge in an interactive format.
• Student-led educational tools like PedsCases are crucial for modern medical education, promoting active student engagement.