E-learning for the pharmacist's CPD (Continuous professional development): instructional design, a key point

摘要

Health needs are growing and changing, especially with the aging population. Both the community and hospital pharmacists must be trained throughout life with great responsiveness, flexibility and efficiency to meet this challenge. In this context, information technology and in particular the spread of the Internet have led to the emergence of e-learning for pharmacists' training. The objective of this paper was to define and describe what is e-learning and discuss its advantages and limitations in the context of professional pharmaceutical activities and CPD. The e-learning refers to the distance learning through digital and electronic tools. The e-learning must place the learner at the heart of the learning process. First, to do this, it must include an instructional design process before associating the appropriate technological tools. The learning objectives must be clearly stated, specific, unambiguous and measurable. The instructional design must also be based on specific principles of adult learning. The design of a module comprises three main parts: (i) Selection of content to mediate, (ii) Scripting activities, (iii) creating educational material. It should last 20 minutes. It is hosted by a LMS and designed according to SCORM 2004 standard. It includes a tracking system and web 2.0 features to enable collaborative and cooperative learning. In the market, there are many offers that vary in educational design from simple slideshow, improperly called E Learning, to tailored E Learning Module and / or serious games. Finally, the strengths and weaknesses of E learning are discussed in the context of CPD. E-learning is a real and complementary alternative to residential training. It should be considered by all pharmacists for their continuing professional development as its effectiveness is demonstrated.