Strengthening bioinformatics education: e-learning initiatives across ELIXIR Nodes and Communities

Area of Science:

• Bioinformatics
• Life Sciences
• Educational Technology

Background:

• The growing need for accessible bioinformatics training across Europe.
• ELIXIR's role as a pan-European research infrastructure.
• The challenge of transcending geographical and institutional barriers in education.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review ELIXIR's e-learning initiatives.
• To identify key features of effective bioinformatics e-learning.
• To analyze current platforms and Learning Management Systems (LMS).

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of e-learning initiatives within ELIXIR.
• Analysis of educational platforms and LMS deployment.
• Examination of standardization efforts (e.g., SCORM).

Main Results:

• Overview of diverse e-learning platforms like TeSS and EeLP.
• Emphasis on interactive, open-access, and sustainable training resources.
• Advancements in standardization and interoperability for resource reuse.

Conclusions:

• E-learning is crucial for widespread bioinformatics training.
• Standardization and integration into hybrid models are key future directions.
• Focus on FAIR data principles for training resources and trainer development.