Optimizing e-Learning in CPD: Preferences and Perceptions of Health Professionals.

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• E-learning
• Health Professions Education

Background:

• Continuing professional development (CPD) for health professionals increasingly utilizes e-learning platforms.
• Limited research exists on preferred instructional strategies within e-learning for this demographic.
• This study addresses the gap by investigating learner preferences to enhance the e-learning experience.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify preferred instructional strategies in e-learning modules for health professionals.
• To understand how these strategies impact the learning experience and satisfaction.

Main Methods:

• Development of six self-paced e-learning modules on education and leadership for health professionals.
• Analysis of anonymized module evaluation surveys (2019-2022) including Likert scale and open-ended questions.
• Descriptive statistics for quantitative data and thematic analysis for qualitative responses.

Main Results:

• 100% of respondents found module content helpful and aligned with learning objectives.
• 94% reported increased knowledge from readings/videos and strengthened understanding from quizzes.
• Key themes identified: pedagogical strategies, technology, feedback/interaction, and transfer of learning.

Conclusions:

• Learner voice is crucial, highlighting preferences for adult learning principles in e-learning.
• Content relevance, expert development, and authentic examples significantly enhance learner satisfaction.
• Findings inform the design of more effective e-learning for health professional CPD.