title: CELT: a computerised evaluative learning tool for continuing professional development.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  To evaluate a computerised, evaluative learning tool (CELT) designed to encourage self-directed learning and help users make changes in practice following learning. The study aimed to evaluate how CELT was used and to ascertain user perceptions of the program.
  
  
  METHODS
  Qualitative analysis of interviews and quantitative analysis of entries made using the software.
  
  
  METHODS
  West of Scotland region, comprising six Health Board areas with a total of 2176 general practitioners (GPs), 39 of whom took part in the study.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Of the 39 GPs who started on the project, 34 used CELT. Of these 34, 28 GPs sent in files and six did not. Of the 28 GPs who sent in files, 25 entered data and 76% (22/29) considered the program easy to use. The program was used 7 days a week during the day and night. It raised participants' awareness of the educational value of everyday experiences and led to increased thought about learning. In 41% (45/111) of entries there was evidence that some action had been initiated by users as a result of learning.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  CELT was designed to encourage self-directed learning and help users make changes in practice following learning. The study has shown that it can be used to deliver individual continuing professional development. It encourages a disciplined approach to learning, promotes thought about learning needs and increases the ability of GPs to learn from everyday experiences. In some instances, users were able to apply what had been learned.
authors.affiliation: Department of Postgraduate Medical Education, Horselethill Road, Glasgow, GL2 9LX, UK. diane.kelly@scpmde.scot.nhs.uk
authors.forename: Diane R
authors.initials: DR
authors.lastname: Kelly
authors.forename: Linda
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: MacKay
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D003194:Computer-Assisted Instruction / Q000379:methods*; D004502:Education, Medical, Continuing / Q000379:methods* / Q000592:standards; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007858:Learning; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011361:Professional Competence / Q000592:standards; D012606:Scotland; D012984:Software