Web-Based Learning As An Important Bridge In Information Divide In Contemporary Practice Of Pathology In The Developing World: Findings From Nigeria

Abstract

Aim To assess the degree of adoption of web-based and modern information and communication technology (ICT) facilities in the practice of Pathologists in Nigeria.Methods Structured questionnaires were either posted or e-mailed to Pathologists in Nigeria. Information such as computer literacy/ownership, internet accessibility and frequency, and a self assessment of webbased learning were obtained. Data obtained was analysed using simple descriptive methods.Results About 83.7% of the respondents used internet for literature reviews, 67.6% for tutorials and 19% for chats. Also 40.5% of the respondents accessed their computer skills to be good, similar to those who considered their skills to be fair while 13.5% considered their skills to be excellent. Those who had computers at both office and home were 67.6%, home alone 18.9%, office alone 5.4% while 8.1% had no computer anywhere. Those who accessed internet services at home were 27%, similar to those who used cyber cafe; 37.8% used office while 8.1% had internet services both at home and office. Some of the barriers to unhindered access to internet services as obtained from the respondents include: lack of technological know how, too much monthly subscription cost, software/hardware incompatibility, poor/irregular network signals and high bandwidth among others.Conclusion Pathologists in the developing world need to confront head on the myriad of challenges associated with adoption of modern ICT in the course of their practice. This would properly position them to continue making meaningful contributions to modern day Medicine.