An e-learning platform for guideline implementation--evidence- and case-based knowledge translation via the Internet.
OBJECTIVE
Effective knowledge translation in medicine is an essential element of a modern health care system. Evidence-based clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) are considered relevant instruments for the transfer of knowledge into clinical practice. To improve this transfer we have created Internet-based continuing medical education (CME) modules and online case-based learning objects.


METHODS
Building upon existing CPGs, an e-learning platform including a multi-step review process was developed to generate CME modules. These CME modules were presented through a modified content management system (CMS) that fulfils specific requirements of CME. An online questionnaire using a four-point Likert scale was designed to receive mandatory feedback from participating physicians. In the second step of development, case-based learning objects were added to the CMS.


RESULTS
Existing clinical practice guidelines allowed a rapid development of CME modules specific to individual clinical indications. The modified CMS proved to be technically stable but also resource-intensive. 3105 physicians registered and used the platform between June 2003 and April 2005. 95% of the physicians expressed positive feedback in an evaluation questionnaire; only 35% of physicians actually used the corresponding CPGs in practice. Suggestions from the CME users led to the development of interactive medical case-based learning objects related to the main topics of the CPGs.


CONCLUSIONS
To support the implementation of CPGs, an Internet platform for CME including case-based learning objects and examination tests was developed. An interactive online CME platform can support active learning and may establish an additional stimulus for knowledge translation into daily medical practice.
Vollmar
H C
HC
Competence Centre for General Practive and Outpatients' Health Care, Witten/Herdecke University, 58448 Witten, Germany. vollmar@uni-wh.de
Schürer-Maly
C-C
CC
Frahne
J
J
Lelgemann
M
M
Butzlaff
M
M
D003194:Computer-Assisted Instruction; D020000:Decision Support Systems, Clinical; D020375:Education, Distance; D004502:Education, Medical, Continuing / Q000379:methods* / Q000592:standards; D004521:Educational Measurement; D019317:Evidence-Based Medicine / Q000193:education*; D005858:Germany; D006801:Humans; D033181:Information Dissemination / Q000379:methods; D020407:Internet; D017410:Practice Guidelines as Topic; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires