title: Electronic learning in advanced resuscitation training: The perspective of the candidate.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Studies have shown that blended approaches combining e-learning with face-to-face training reduces costs whilst maintaining similar learning outcomes. The preferences in learning approach for healthcare providers to this new style of learning have not been comprehensively studied. The aim of this study is to evaluate the acceptability of blended learning to advanced resuscitation training.
  
  
  METHODS
  Participants taking part in the traditional and blended electronic advanced life support (e-ALS) courses were invited to complete a written evaluation of the course. Participants' views were captured on a 6-point Likert scale and in free text written comments covering the content, delivery and organisation of the course. Proportional-odds cumulative logit models were used to compare quantitative responses. Thematic analysis was used to synthesise qualitative feedback.
  
  
  RESULTS
  2848 participants from 31 course centres took part in the study (2008-2010). Candidates consistently scored content delivered face-to-face over the same content delivered over the e-learning platform. Candidates valued practical hands on training which included simulation highly. Within the e-ALS group, a common theme was a feeling of "time pressure" and they "preferred the face-to-face teaching". However, others felt that e-ALS "suited their learning style", was "good for those recertifying", and allowed candidates to "use the learning materials at their own pace".
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The e-ALS course was well received by most, but not all participants. The majority felt the e-learning module was beneficial. There was universal agreement that the face-to-face training was invaluable. Individual learning styles of the candidates affected their reaction to the course materials.
authors.affiliation: Resuscitation Council (UK), Tavistock House North, Tavistock Square, London WC1H 9HR, UK. Electronic address: andrew.lockey@cht.nhs.uk.
authors.forename: Andrew S
authors.initials: AS
authors.lastname: Lockey
authors.affiliation: Heart of England Foundation Trust, Bordesley Green East, Birmingham B9 5SS, UK.
authors.forename: Laura
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Dyal
authors.affiliation: Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, UK.
authors.forename: Peter K
authors.initials: PK
authors.lastname: Kimani
authors.affiliation: Resuscitation Council (UK), Tavistock House North, Tavistock Square, London WC1H 9HR, UK.
authors.forename: Jenny
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Lam
authors.affiliation: Resuscitation Council (UK), Tavistock House North, Tavistock Square, London WC1H 9HR, UK; Royal College of Physicians, London NW1 4LE, UK.
authors.forename: Ian
authors.initials: I
authors.lastname: Bullock
authors.affiliation: Heart of England Foundation Trust, Bordesley Green East, Birmingham B9 5SS, UK.
authors.forename: Dominic
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Buck
authors.affiliation: Resuscitation Council (UK), Tavistock House North, Tavistock Square, London WC1H 9HR, UK; Heart of England Foundation Trust, Bordesley Green East, Birmingham B9 5SS, UK.
authors.forename: Robin P
authors.initials: RP
authors.lastname: Davies
authors.affiliation: Resuscitation Council (UK), Tavistock House North, Tavistock Square, London WC1H 9HR, UK; Heart of England Foundation Trust, Bordesley Green East, Birmingham B9 5SS, UK; Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, UK.
authors.forename: Gavin D
authors.initials: GD
authors.lastname: Perkins
mesh_terms: D022561:Advanced Cardiac Life Support / Q000193:education*; D003194:Computer-Assisted Instruction / Q000592:standards; D013334:Students
keywords: ALS; Advanced life support; Education; e-Learning