A breastfeeding e-learning project based on a web forum.
OBJECTIVE
The Internet has introduced new ways of learning that may complement medical training during the residency period. We describe the experience with a new method of e-learning for training in human lactation and breastfeeding counselling. Pediatric residents participated in the Human Lactation Forum maintained by the Spanish Pediatric Association Breastfeeding Committee, a site on the Internet where parents may write in for pediatric advice on breastfeeding.


METHODS
From April 2005 to May 2006, 42 pediatric residents from four hospitals in Spain received a month of intensive theoretical training on breastfeeding, and afterward, they took weekly turns answering parents' questions in the forum. Before and after the experience, they completed a pre-post knowledge test and an opinion postexperience questionnaire with open questions. A t-test was used to analyze the differences pre- and posttest; the opinion questionnaire was analyzed qualitatively.


RESULTS
The mean age of participants was 28.3 years; 88% were women, and 80% were in their third or fourth year of residency. The percentage of correct answers was higher after participation in the program, and the difference had statistic significance. The residents estimated that nearly a half of their patients needed breastfeeding advice, and they thought that the program improved their knowledge of breastfeeding and their communication skills with mothers. On average, they spent 2.9 hours daily to answer the questions.


CONCLUSIONS
The learning experience was positively evaluated by the participants and contributed to increase their knowledge and skills in breastfeeding issues. We think it is a good method for training future pediatricians on breastfeeding management. In addition, the instrument may contribute to improve lactation knowledge among pediatricians.
Lasarte Velillas
Juan José
JJ
Primary Care Health Center of Zuera, Aragonés Health Service, Zaragoza, Spain. jjlasarte@comz.org
Hernández-Aguilar
María-Teresa
MT
Pallás Alonso
Carmen Rosa
CR
Díaz-Gómez
N Marta
NM
Gómez Papí
Adolfo
A
Fernández Espuelas
Cristina
C
Paricio Talayero
José María
JM
D000328:Adult; D001942:Breast Feeding / Q000523:psychology; D002983:Clinical Competence; D003479:Curriculum; D004502:Education, Medical, Continuing / Q000379:methods*; D005260:Female; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D020407:Internet; D007396:Internship and Residency; D007774:Lactation; D008297:Male; D010372:Pediatrics / Q000193:education*; D013663:Teaching / Q000379:methods*