E-learning to train staff in Danish hospitals - three genres of e-learning.

Abstract

This paper presents a study of the use of e-learning in education and training of hospital staff in Denmark, in particular in relation with the implementation of electronic patient records (EPR). The study consists of a survey mapping the dissemination and main experience from using e-learning in Danish hospitals. The study shows a widespread use and a considerably agreement on the potentials of e-learning in education and training of hospital staff, but also problems and doubtfulness concerning the actual role of e-learning in the overall educational and organizational strategy for the hospital. The majority of hospitals use some sorts of computer-based training program to support the staff in acquiring necessary knowledge to operate the EPR. I argue that a more differentiated understanding is needed in order to realize the potentials and direct the use of e-learning in hospitals. Three genres of e-learning which differ in regards to qualification addressed are identified and I claim that a more explicit understanding of the differences between them is needed in order to guide the choice of e-learning of hospital staff.