MedEdPublish (Mar 2021)
Adapting online education resources to meet the needs of an emergency medicine training programme in a pilot feasibility study
Abstract
Introduction: Online resources are available to enhance emergency medicine training programmes. The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of using online case-based resources created in the United States in a New Zealand emergency medicine training programme. Methods: Evaluation data were collected from junior doctors and educators after they participated in the programme. Data sources included research notes and questionnaire responses. The data were analysed qualitatively using a general inductive approach. Results: Evaluation feedback from 19 junior doctors and 14 educators was interpreted to suggest that the online resource, with minor adaptations, was feasible to use in a New Zealand emergency medicine training programme. Findings indicated that educators were able to modify the materials to modify to meet local requirements, however, the opportunity to include a cultural component was missed. Participants appreciated the case-based format and felt that they established a safe and encouraging learning environment with each other. Participants were able to develop a systematic approach to emergency situations and identify red flags related to deteriorating patients. Discussion and Conclusion: Evaluation findings indicate that adapting an online-sourced curriculum is feasible to educators and acceptable to junior doctors and educators participating in a single New Zealand based Emergency Medicine training program. Educators in other international training settings may find the lessons learned helpful when adapting online resources to address the learning needs of their junior doctors. Next steps are to evaluate the impact of this resource on the knowledge and skills learned by junior doctors and any changes in their care for patients in emergency medicine situations.
