Assessing the impact of e-learning in medical education

Abstract

E-learning in the field of medical education has been associated with multiple benefits, especially in terms of testing the higher skills of the cognitive domain. E-learning has resulted in a major impact as it has given an opportunity for adaptability to diverse learning styles of the students and that it can meet the learning needs of the increasing number of medical students. The findings of different studies done to assess the impact of adoption of e-learning have indicated highly encouraging results. However, despite all the available evidence suggesting the effectiveness of the adoption of e-learning, it is also important to consider the inherent limitations. In conclusion, adoption of e-learning has resulted in a major positive impact on the acquisition of knowledge and skills in the field of medical education. Now, it is the time to take steps to integrate it within the existing curriculum and help students to become a self-directed and a lifelong learner.The following core competencies are addressed in this article: Medical knowledge, Practice-based learning and improvement, Interpersonal and communication skills, Professionalism, and Systems-based practice.