Usage Patterns of and Feedback on Online E-learning Modules for ‘Common Trunk’ Trainees in Medicine

Abstract

Introduction. E-learning is a useful tool providing after-hours access to continuous Medical Education and the theoretical component of postgraduate medical trainings. Furthermore, it allows accurate recording of trainee activity. Objective. To observe the pattern of usage by trainees and to assess feedback on e-learning use. Method. A modular object-oriented dynamic learning environment (Moodle) online e-learning management system – including 24 online modules relevant to different medical specialities and 24 quizzes. All 23 (14 Female) medical ‘Common-trunk’ trainees at Mater Dei Hospital, Malta were asked to complete these modules as part of their compulsory academic activities within a 6-week deadline. Data on usage was collected by the learning management system and trainees were asked to fill in an online feedback form. Results. All trainees (n = 23) completed all modules; however, 36.1% of modules (M = 49.8%, F = 27.4%) were completed in the last week. Nineteen (n = 21) trainees found the e-learning as a useful or very useful tool. 19/21 Students reported presentations as being of good/high quality and 13/21 reported quizzes to be of a good/high quality standard. Self-rating of acquisition of new knowledge was 7.95 (SD 1.75) on a scale of 0–10. The quality of IT work was rated 7.81 (SD 1.86). Forty-three percent (M 36.6%, F 47.0%) of modules were completed from 16:00 hours to 19:59 hours; 16.5% (M = 29.3%, F = 16.5%); from 20:00 hours to 23:59 hours and 4.5% (M = 8.2%, F = 2.2%) from 00:00 hours to 03:59 hours. A total of 31.2% of modules were performed during weekends (Sat = 13.6%, Sun = 17.6%, Average Mon–Fri = 13.8%). Average time to complete learning module: F = 49.7 minutes, M = 76.4 minutes. Conclusion. Overall feedback on e-learning was positive. There was significant after hour and weekend use. Gender differences in time of access and total time needed to complete modules were noted.