Videoconferencing a stroke assessment training workshop: effectiveness, acceptability, and cost.
BACKGROUND
Videoconferencing (VC) is becoming a common method for the delivery of continuing education (CE) to clinicians in remote locations. The purpose of this study was to compare the effectiveness, acceptability, and costs of a full-day training workshop (TW) delivered through two different formats: face-to-face (FTF) and VC. The TW was designed to teach administration and scoring guidelines for the Chedoke-McMaster Stroke Assessment, an outcome measure used by rehabilitation professionals.


METHODS
The TW was delivered simultaneously in FTF and VC formats to a total of five remote communities on two separate occasions. Participants completed a test of scoring competency at the beginning (pretest) and end (posttest) of the TW as well as a feedback questionnaire. A cost comparison was also undertaken.


RESULTS
Forty-four physical and occupational therapists participated. No significant between-group differences were found in posttest scoring competency related to delivery format (FTF or VC): (F(1,38) = 0.6, MSE = 3.6, p > 0.4), or for the two workshops: (F(1,38) = 1.4, MSE = 3.6, p > 0.2). Despite technical difficulties, participant experience was rated as "good" to "excellent." The VC method offered considerable cost savings to participants and their organizations, at a minimum of $7,437 (Canadian).


CONCLUSIONS
Clinicians participating in the TW via VC performed as well as those in the FTF group on the competency test. Videoconferencing improves access to CE, is well received by participants, and provides a cost-effective method of course delivery. Further evaluation of other CE events delivered through VC is indicated.
Miller
Patricia A
PA
School of Rehabilitation Science, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. pmiller@mcmaster.ca
Huijbregts
Maria
M
French
Esmé
E
Taylor
Denise
D
Reinikka
Kirsti
K
Berezny
Laura
L
Fry
Sherri
S
Grunin
Anna
A
Harvey
Melissa
M
D003258:Consumer Behavior; D003365:Costs and Cost Analysis; D004493:Education / Q000379:methods*; D004502:Education, Medical, Continuing; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009788:Occupational Therapy; D009864:Ontario; D026761:Physical Therapy Specialty; D015397:Program Evaluation; D020521:Stroke / Q000175:diagnosis*; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D049269:Videoconferencing