Studying health information from a distance: refining an e-learning case study in the crucible of student evaluation.
OBJECTIVE
To present a formative evaluation of the impact of a multimedia case study as a component of a masters course in health informatics delivered by distance learning.


METHODS
First and second year health informatics students undertaking four core modules of a masters programme at the University of Sheffield.


METHODS
Individual qualitative user surveys and interviews.


RESULTS
Formative evaluation has played a significant role in refining the case study through its text-based, intermediate and CD-ROM based stages. Feedback from students has resulted in clarification of case study tasks, clearer definition of teaching roles and a revised approach to assessment. At the same time it has highlighted the importance of ongoing revision and maintenance in keeping the scenarios realistic and current.


CONCLUSIONS
The multimedia case study has met many of its original aims in providing greater cohesion for core modules and encouraging greater levels of interaction and multidisciplinary collaboration.
Booth
Andrew
A
Centre for Health Information Management Research, School of Health and Related Research, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK. A.Booth@sheffield.ac.uk
Levy
Philippa
P
Bath
Peter A
PA
Lacey
Terence
T
Sanderson
Mark
M
Diercks-O'Brien
Gabi
G
D003194:Computer-Assisted Instruction / Q000379:methods*; D003479:Curriculum; D020375:Education, Distance / Q000379:methods / Q000458:organization & administration*; D004500:Education, Graduate / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D016247:Information Storage and Retrieval / Q000379:methods*; D007993:Libraries, Medical; D018966:Library Materials / Q000458:organization & administration; D008490:Medical Informatics / Q000193:education*; D019212:Multimedia; D019982:Organizational Case Studies; D015397:Program Evaluation; D006113:United Kingdom