[E-learning in ENT: Usage in University Medical Centers in Germany]

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Otorhinolaryngology
• Digital Learning

Background:

• E-learning is crucial for modern medical education, especially for complex subjects like Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) anatomy and physiology.
• Current data on e-learning adoption and student feedback in German ENT university hospitals is lacking.
• The extent of blended learning and its impact on student learning in ENT is unknown.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the current need for and usage of e-learning in academic ENT centers in Germany.
• To assess the implementation status and student feedback regarding e-learning in ENT medical education.

Main Methods:

• A survey was distributed to students and department chairs in German ENT university hospitals during the summer semester 2015.
• Both electronic and paper-based survey methods were employed to gather data.
• Data on e-learning application quality, quantity, and perceived teaching improvements were collected.

Main Results:

• The study revealed a heterogeneous landscape regarding the quality and quantity of e-learning applications in German academic ENT.
• Overall e-learning adoption in academic ENT settings in Germany was found to be relatively low.
• At least 50% of surveyed ENT departments reported that e-learning had positively impacted their teaching activities.

Conclusions:

• Enhanced collaboration between medical faculties and ENT centers could unlock new e-learning potentials.
• Addressing technical challenges and fostering joint projects are key to realizing more ambitious e-learning initiatives.
• Despite current limitations, e-learning shows promise for improving ENT medical education in Germany.