AMEE 2008 – Short communication accepted
Two approaches to get students involved in voluntary e-learning programs
EHLERS JP1, WAGELS R2, STASZYK C3, GASSE H3, PFARRER C3, KOCH R3, BALTES N4, REHAGE J5, MEYER H5, FELDMANN M5, BOLLWEIN H5
1e-Learning Consultant, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation
2Clinic for Horses, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation
3Department of Anatomy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation
4Department of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation
5Clinic for Cattle, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation
INTRODUCTION: The University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover aims to enhance the use of e-learning as a supplement to traditional teaching. By the use of multimedia-based problems or case studies students should be motivated to learn and research literature on their own. The didactical intention is a mixture of constructive and cognitive-instructive elements.
METHODS: CASUS (Instruct AG, Munich, Germany) was used to create learning-modules in an easy and convenient way without the need for a script language:
(1) In anatomy and buiatric the case studies were developed by lecturers. In anatomy, lecture and test accompanying case modules were offered for voluntary use (1st and 2nd year). The participants of the clinical practical year of the Clinic for Cattle (5th year) were given the possibility of working on case studies during their free-time.
(2) In the Clinics for Horses and Cattle as in the Department for Microbiology multimedia-based CASUS case studies were provided as an elective course (peer-to-peer education).
RESULTS: (1) 5 modules were offered for students to learn parts of the subject of anatomy independently. The percentage of voluntary use varied between 47.6% (2007) and 72% (2005). In the Clinic for Cattle an utilisation of 22.9% was achieved.
(2) In the previous three semesters 5 elective courses in creating case-studies took place. Despite the huge response only 78 students could participate. Divided into small groups they developed 15 case-studies (11x horse, 2x cattle and 2x microbiology). The concluding evaluation indicated a high acceptability and satisfaction with regard to the content, mentoring and the design of the course.
DISCUSSION: Students should be made aware of the importance of the voluntary use of e-learning programs being integrated in the curriculum and of their relevance for courses, exams and practice. Students should familiarise themselves early on in their studies (1st year) with the e-learning tools. Peer-to-peer education also involves the students in the creation of learning materials and encourages them to use new techniques. Both approaches will be intensified at the University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover in the future.
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