1193 Noting the Need for Neonatal Online Training in Europe - Leonardo Da Vinci the Third

Abstract

A European syllabus for postgraduate training in neonatology was published in 1998 but within Europe there remains a wide variation in the quality and standards of training programmes. In two previous projects we have demonstrated that online neonatal training modules can provide education and training of a uniform standard, which is accessible to all trainees across Europe, irrespective of geographical or personal circumstances. A third online training programme (N.O.T.E.), funded by the European Commission Leonardo da Vinci Programme, has been developed to offer four, syllabus-based, training modules. Summative assessment will be integrated, with the aim of offering successful participants an accredited, transferable qualification. This paper describes the outcome of the recruitment process. Methods: Details of the programme were circulated by the 7 European partners to colleagues and trainees in their own and neighbouring countries. Results: Application forms, including a standardised questionnaire, were submitted by 197 doctors from 20 countries. 66% were female; the mean age of both sexes was 35 years, ranging from 25 to 58 years with up to 25 years neonatal experience reported. Reasons for applying were; 86% wished to increase knowledge, 54% expected to gain from multicultural collaboration, 30% wanted to experience a new approach to learning. 62% had no prior online learning experience. The benefits of flexible studying and improved access to training resources were highlighted. We conclude that there is demand for both online postgraduate education and continuing professional development in neonatal medicine to meet the needs of a diverse group of European doctors.