Distributed Learning: Revitalizing Anesthesiology Training in Resource-Limited Ethiopia

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Anesthesiology Training
• E-learning in Healthcare

Background:

• Ethiopia faces a critical shortage of healthcare workers and physician instructors.
• Postgraduate anesthesiology training in Ethiopia lacks standardization and sufficient resources.
• Collaboration between Emory University and Addis Ababa University aims to enhance anesthesiology residency.

Purpose of the Study:

• To augment the existing classroom-based anesthesiology curriculum in Ethiopia.
• To introduce interactive educational sessions and distributed learning (video lectures).
• To address identified areas for improvement in postgraduate anesthesiology training.

Main Methods:

• Pilot study implementing a blended learning approach.
• Needs assessment to identify curriculum gaps.
• Incorporated ultrasound workshops, epidural practicums, journal clubs, problem-based learning, and mock code simulations.
• Utilized video lectures on topics relevant to Ethiopian residents and faculty.

Main Results:

• Significant improvement in knowledge retention observed.
• Pre- to posttest score averages increased from 54.5% to 83.6%.

Conclusions:

• Distributed learning and expanded educational resources are crucial for Ethiopian anesthesiology training.
• Blended learning strategies can lead to more effective instruction and higher information retention.
• Addressing didactic gaps is essential for improving anesthesiology residency programs.