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What can e-learning offer geriatric medicine in the UK?

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  08 June 2012

Ellen Tullo*
Affiliation:
UK NIHR Biomedical Research Centre in Ageing, Institute for Ageing and Health
Julia Newton
Affiliation:
UK NIHR Biomedical Research Centre in Ageing, Institute for Ageing and Health
Alison Clapp
Affiliation:
Graduate School, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
*
Address for correspondence: Ellen Tullo, 3rd Floor Biomedical Research Building, Institute for Ageing and Health, Newcastle University, Campus for Ageing and Vitality, Newcastle upon Tyne NE4 5PL, UK. Email: [email protected]

Summary

The expansion of e-learning in medical education is a reflection of the inherent advantages that technology can bring to teaching and learning. Geriatric medicine has taken advantage of some of the benefits associated with e-learning in terms of undergraduate education, specialty training and interdisciplinary training. However, there are further opportunities and challenges to be met for geriatric medicine to make the very most of e-learning. This review outlines the terminology associated with e-learning, summarizes the advantages and potential problems, and considers the evidence base for the efficacy of e-learning. Current use of e-learning amongst professional groups is summarized and recommendations made for expanding the use of e-learning for all healthcare professionals working with older people.

Type
Education and training
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 2012

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