|
|
What is eLearning??
For our purposes we define eLearning as on-line methods of learning through the use of a wide array of text, audio, video and interactive animation and simulation for optimal conceptual engagement.
Why do we want to use these eLearning methods??
Many sources have concluded that traditional methods of teaching, ergo learning, have not worked in on-line environments. Failure and drop-out rates are estimated to be as high as 65%. Instructional methods that have worked in the classroom do not seem to work on line. The main reason given is that these traditional methods of instruction are significantly more boring on the web. The students lose interest and drop out.
Why is eLearning different??
The student learns, actually teaches himself, through her interaction with the tools which allow her to conceptualize and visually and audially create her own model of the subject.
On the left is a scaled down example of an on-line interactive learning animation. It is used in the following Basic Cervical Assessment Module. |
|
1. Cx-AL Guide: An Online Learning Module for Cervical Assessment: (about 15 to 20 min)
Purpose:
1. Provide, for nursing students, a basic understanding and a definition of terminology for cervical examination of the pregnant woman, through the use of a wide array of text, audio, video and interactive video animation and simulation for optimal conceptual engagement. Allow the learner the option to independently navigate through the module or follow the outline. Make it short, interesting, to the point and invite her interactivity.
2. Prepare nursing students to use CxAL Guide instrument to accurately record findings from cervical assessment of simulator models.
Instructional problems associated with Cervical Assessment:
. Childbirth is a natural but very complex process. In a very short time both the mother and child undergo radical but interrelated changes. Understanding the process is a meaningful and exciting concept. Understanding the meaning of the measure of assessments usually requires learned skills and experience.
. Nursing students are not permitted to learn skills on pregnant women. Few simulators can accurately depict the feel of a maternal cervix or baby during childbirth and none can realistically represent the changes involved.
. Measurements obtained from cervical assessment are never actually seen, but obtained by touch. Even experienced practitioners are likely to differ in translating their tactile measurements to a nominal metric. Traditional methods of teaching these skills are difficult as there are few, if any, scalar instruments available.
. Existing technologies (lectures, power point presentations, videos and books) provide the context for cervical assessment, but do not adequately convey the metrics and mechanisms involved with cervical change during labor. |
