Development and Implementation of a Pediatric Pulmonary-Focused Active Learning Curriculum.

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Pediatric Pulmonology
• E-learning

Background:

• Pediatric trainees require structured didactic sessions to complement clinical experience.
• E-learning modules offer a flexible and effective alternative for medical education.
• Existing research supports the benefits of online learning in medical training.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate interactive, case-based e-learning modules for pediatric pulmonology.
• To assess the impact of these modules on knowledge acquisition and decision-making skills in trainees.
• To determine the acceptance and effectiveness of e-learning in pediatric pulmonary education.

Main Methods:

• Four interactive e-learning modules were created on asthma, chronic cough, tracheostomy, and obstructive sleep apnea.
• Modules included expert videos, images, and multiple-choice questions, delivered via email.
• Knowledge and decision-making were assessed using pre- and post-course questions from December 2021 to July 2022.

Main Results:

• Twenty-two participants (medical students and pediatric residents) completed the modules.
• Posttest scores improved by 9%–21% across all modules, with significant gains in obstructive sleep apnea.
• Trainees reported increased knowledge and found the modules supplemented their learning effectively.

Conclusions:

• Self-paced online modules are well-accepted by pediatric trainees.
• E-learning modules effectively improve knowledge and medical decision-making in pediatric pulmonology.
• These modules are a valuable tool for enhancing the education of general pediatricians in managing common pulmonary conditions.