Attitude to e-learning among newly qualified doctors.

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Digital Learning Technologies
• Healthcare Professional Training

Background:

• e-Learning is increasingly vital in medical education, with existing research often focusing on medical students or senior doctors.
• This study investigates the attitudes of newly qualified foundation year 1 (FY1) doctors towards blended learning.
• It aims to understand the perceived role of e-learning alongside classroom and experiential learning.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the attitudes of foundation year 1 doctors towards a blended learning program.
• To determine the perceived value and optimal delivery of e-learning in early medical training.

Main Methods:

• A blended learning strategy combining weekly lectures with flexible e-learning sessions was implemented.
• A questionnaire survey was administered to 69 foundation year 1 doctors, with 37 (54%) responding.
• Data was collected towards the end of their first postgraduate year.

Main Results:

• The majority of FY1 doctors reported needing to complete e-learning outside of work hours.
• 54% preferred e-learning at both work and home, while 38% preferred it exclusively outside of work.
• 73% did not consider e-learning a mandatory part of weekly teaching, though 54% found it useful for their FY1 training. The 'safe prescribing' e-programme was highlighted as particularly beneficial.

Conclusions:

• Newly qualified doctors view e-learning as a valuable addition to experiential and lecture-based medical training.
• A blended learning program, delivered flexibly at work or home, is generally preferred.
• Medical educators should prioritize the administration and delivery of e-learning, not just its design.