[Development and learning outcomes of an e-learning ECT for psychiatry residents]

Education in electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) has become mandatory in the Dutch psychiatry training. ECT is still relatively rarely used. To increase knowledge about ECT, we have developed a training module about ECT for psychiatrist training. To promote flexible learning, we opted for e-learning, where educational principles have been applied in the design.

In this article we discuss how this e-learning ECT was developed and analyze the learning outcomes for psychiatry residents.

The e-learning has been developed based on the ADDIE model and consists of an entrance test, various assignments and a final test. The learning outcomes of the first 216 residents have been analyzed quantitatively and qualitatively using test results, self-assessments of their expertise in ECT (before and after) and evaluations.

Of the participating residents, 94% found this education relevant to practice. The e-learning was rated with an average of 8.3. Afterwards, one’s own knowledge about ECT was estimated to be significantly higher than before. Afterwards, 72% thought they can indicate ECT more quickly and 99% reported that they can better inform patients and families about ECT.

The e-learning ECT is appreciated by residents and leads to an experienced improvement in knowledge about ECT.