Internet-based education is a generally effective teaching methodology for healthcare professionals, according to a study published in the September 10, 2008 issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA). Data were gathered from studies in any language that compared internet-based teaching methodologies and educational outcomes to a no-intervention or non-internet control group, or compared to pre-intervention assessments. Sample populations included practicing or student physicians, nurses, pharmacists and dentists. The study concluded that positive effects result from internet-based learning.

The lead author of the study (Dr. David Cook, MD of the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota) reports, "Our findings suggest that internet-based instruction is an effective way to teach healthcare professionals". Cook continues to report that internet-based instruction appears to be as effective as traditional teaching methodologies.

Cook notes that healthcare workers are balancing practice-demands with an ever-expanding volume of knowledge and require more effective and efficient methods of learning. Internet-based courses provide flexibility, adaptability, and availability of content to the working health care professional as well as to today's students.

Full Text of Article: Cook D, Levinson AJ, Garside S, Dupras D, Erwin P, Montori V. Internet-Based Learning in the Health Professions: A Meta-Analysis. JAMA. 2008; 300(10):1181-1196.

Source: HealthImagingNews. Available at:http://www.healthimaging.com/content/view/12119/89/. Accessed September 16, 2008