Knowledge, usability and challenges of e-learning platforms for continuing Professional Development of healthcare professionals at University Teaching Hospital of Kigali

Abstract

BackgroundHealthcare professionals constitute a critical component of clinical care services. To provide the expected service, they must continuously develop their profession through continuous learning. This kind of learning is recognized as continuing professional development (CPD). Traditionally, CPD is offered onsite. Onsite training is associated with some barriers that prevent healthcare professionals from attending such educational activities, including financial difficulties and long distance. This is why online learning is proposed to overcome these barriers.ObjectiveThe main purpose was to evaluate usability, knowledge and challenges of e-learning platforms for CPD of healthcare professionals at University Teaching Hospital of Kigali (CHUK).MethodsThe cross-sectional quantitative study approach was utilized; the data was collected at the workplace of nurses, midwives, and allied health professionals by using a pre-designed questionnaire. The data were analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25 and presented as frequencies.ResultsA significant majority was aware of CPD e-learning platforms. For example, 95.7% of the participants were familiar with these platforms, indicating that they had some degree of knowledge about their existence and purpose. Regarding the mode of accessing CPD courses, 82.1% of participants preferred online platforms, demonstrating a strong will to use e-learning platforms.ConclusionThis study highlighted a high level of awareness and utilization of CPD e-learning platforms among healthcare professionals at CHUK, additionally, participants expressed confidence in using the platforms but emphasized the need for further support and training.