Leveraging e-learning in medical education.

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Pediatric Training
• Digital Learning Technologies

Background:

• e-Learning is increasingly utilized in medical education for its unique teaching opportunities.
• Its application in pediatrics requires further examination to optimize educational outcomes.
• Addressing implementation gaps can enhance e-learning's utility in medical training.

Purpose of the Study:

• To define the current state of e-learning in pediatric education.
• To identify strategies for leveraging e-learning for enhanced educational effectiveness.
• To explore neglected areas in e-learning implementation for medical education.

Main Methods:

• Systematic database review of e-learning in pediatric training (2003-2013).
• Searches conducted across Scopus, ERIC, PubMed, Google, and Hakia databases.
• Analysis of 72 articles, supplemented by e-learning design screening questions for 10 articles.

Main Results:

• Six well-defined pediatric e-learning resources were identified, primarily focusing on instructional effectiveness and learner satisfaction.
• Limited studies addressed e-learning development, implementation strategies, and learner needs assessments.
• Diverse study designs, measurement tools, and materials were employed in reviewed e-learning interventions.

Conclusions:

• e-Learning effectively supports self-directed learning, offers 24/7 flexibility, and fosters collaborative learning communities.
• It is a viable solution for medical educators facing challenges in continuous professional development.
• Recommendations are provided for improving e-learning activities in medical education.