Distance learning and the internet in respiratory therapy education

Area of Science:

• Health Professions Education
• Distance Learning Technologies
• Respiratory Therapy Training

Background:

• The respiratory therapy (RT) profession is expanding in size and scope.
• Increased demand for RT practitioners necessitates innovative training solutions.
• Instructional technology, including distance learning, is crucial for RT education.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate current distance learning applications in RT programs.
• To gauge opinions on the suitable integration of distance education in RT curricula.

Main Methods:

• A 13-item online survey was distributed to directors of 343 accredited RT programs.
• The survey assessed the frequency of distance education methods in RT programs.
• Data collection focused on entry-level and advanced RT courses.

Main Results:

• A 50% response rate (169 directors) was achieved.
• 52% of responding programs incorporated some form of online learning.
• Most directors expect distance learning components to remain stable or increase.

Conclusions:

• Distance education serves a supportive role in RT training.
• Program directors favor traditional face-to-face instruction for practical skills.
• Distance learning, when applied correctly, can effectively address educational challenges like cost and access.