Homoeowiki—An interactive learning platform for homeopathic remedies

Abstract

Aude sapere-Dare To Know (Samuel Hahnemann 1755–1843) Introduction Collecting knowledge about homeopathic remedies is one of the first steps a student is challenged with, in order to enter the field of Homeopathy. A lot of research work is invested within Homeopathic study-groups. In the process of studying homeopathic remedies, students analyze literature of original authors as well as from modern homeopaths. The results are consolidated information about remedies with a high value because of the independency of one author. The main target for the master thesis is to analyze homeopathic information paths and replicate them within a modern information system. The system will be based on the Web2.0 standards in order to build a place for this matured information and enable an interactive discussion process. Method The method is to analyze information paths of the target group and build upon this knowledge, a full functional prototype. This prototype-based modeling leads to an Information System with valid content. The authors of this prototype enrich the platform with structured information about substances in a template-based way. The common method within the Materia medica of considerable authors is the basement for the structure of such a global template. In other words the aim of such a plattform is to offer an information system that has the following attributes: • easy to use; • high available; • equipped with a strong search engine and a high information retrieval rate; • enable a topic-based discussion process; • high data security and a transparent change management. Results The result is a full functional prototype of an Online Materia medica that holds about 300 remedies as a base choice set which can be enhanced if necessary. The search engine within such a system will be delivered through the OpenSource plattform MediaWiki. The MediaWiki also enables discussion processes, which will help students to explain their consolidated findings. The important point of data security and logged protocols of changes is also a result of the right choice of the underlying platform. Conclusions The platform has the potential to be an open and commercial free foundation for students and Homeopaths to create a modern and timely accurate Information System for Homeopathic remedies.