Education in the Modern Health Care Setting: Development of an e-Learning Module for Clinicians

Abstract

Consistent dose reporting, as well as the application of planning dose constraints, is dependent upon the quality of organ delineation. Several published trials show the variability in target and organ at risk delineation. In an effort to improve heart contouring consistency across disciplines, the Odette Cancer Centre instituted heart contouring guidelines for patients receiving radiation to the lung and breast. The interdisciplinary learning requirements associated with this practice change necessitated innovative educational tools. An e-learning module provides a unique opportunity to communicate the conceptual changes; bridge knowledge gaps; and encourage critical thinking skills, while addressing the challenges of time constraints and limited resources available in the modern health care environment. An interprofessional team of Radiation Therapists, Medical Physicists and Radiation Oncologists was organized to develop the supporting knowledge base. The e-learning module consisted of three major divisions, a review of heart anatomy, a facilitated introduction to the heart contour guidelines and an opportunity for simulated self assessment. Four key regions of the heart were identified for contouring. For each region defining factors describing slice selection were detailed and gold standard image contour datasets were obtained to provide staff with reference information as well as self assessment validation. E-learning modules create opportunities for active learning, allowing individuals to interact with dynamic content, and receive real-time feedback on their knowledge. Challenges include knowledge retention, maintenance and remediation; access and availability to online resources. Upon completion of the e-learning module staff identified the session; provided them with the opportunity of learn new information; increased their ability to integrate knowledge; provided them the opportunity to develop their knowledge skills and judgment; increased their confidence in this area of clinical practice; increased their comfort in completing the clinical task; and increased their ability to share knowledge with their colleagues. E-learning modules can provide large institutions a novel and effective means to disseminate knowledge.