E-Learning: Is it any better than Traditional Approaches in Psychotherapy Education?

Catherine Hickey,Sean Mcaleer,Donnamarie Khalili

doi:10.12740/app/60644

Abstract

Aim of the studyThere is a trend towards competency based psychotherapy education in psychiatry training but programs are finding it difficult to meet the expanded requirements for learner competence in multiple modalities of psychotherapy. E-learning has been raised as a potential solution to the problem. However, there have been few studies determining if e-learning is any better than traditional learning. The objective of this study is to determine if online learning modules can enhance knowledge acquisition and learner satisfaction in psychotherapy education.Subject or material and methodsA need analysis was performed at this institution to determine the learning needs and preferences of the psychiatry residents. A blended course (consisting of traditional lectures, online modules and videotape review) was designed and developed based on these needs. Lectures and online modules were evaluated by means of pre-tests and post-tests. A paired t-test was used to determine if knowledge acquisition occurred in each online module and lecture group. An independent t-test was used to determine if there was greater knowledge acquisition in the online module group versus the lecture group. A learner satisfaction questionnaire was distributed with each online module.ResultsNineteen residents completed the study. There was statistically significant knowledge acquisition in each online module and lecture group. There was no difference in knowledge acquisition between online modules and lectures. Learners were satisfied with the modules, but experienced minor technical difficulties.DiscussionOnline modules may enhance learner satisfaction in psychotherapy education. But there may be no difference in learning compared to traditional classroom-based lectures.ConclusionsFurther studies are needed.

Highlights

The Oxford English Dictionary [1] defines psychotherapy as the treatment of mental disorders by psychological rather than medicalIn North America, training expectations have grown in psychotherapy education [2,3] and educators are facing new challenges
Before assessing for competency, psychotherapy educators must develop curricula that start with the basics
E-learning is the use of technology to facilitate learning [4]. It is considered synonymous with web-based learning and online learning

Summary

Introduction

The Oxford English Dictionary [1] defines psychotherapy as the treatment of mental disorders by psychological rather than medicalIn North America, training expectations have grown in psychotherapy education [2,3] and educators are facing new challenges. Teachers must find new ways to teach and assess competence in multiple modalities of psychotherapy. Before assessing for competency, psychotherapy educators must develop curricula that start with the basics. Such beginning curricula do not teach skills-based psychotherapy. Rather, they impart important knowledge necessary for the later development of skills. E-learning is the use of technology to facilitate learning [4]. It is considered synonymous with web-based learning and online learning. E-learning can be developed for both knowledge-based and skills-based learning It combines a variety of different elements which have been shown to enhance learning. Pre – and post-tests are useful features of e-learning modules and allow for greater retention of material [8]

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Conclusion