The Development of Mobile Learning CPD Modules to Improve the Management of Respiratory Diseases

Abstract

The social and economic cost of Asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) in New Zealand is increasing. In response, new and updated Adult and Child & Adolescent Asthma Guidelines were created by the Asthma and Respiratory Foundation NZ to inform healthcare providers of current best practice. Primary healthcare providers are at the forefront of asthma management and treatment, but the New Zealand population is geographically disparate, and facilitated training can be impractical. Whitireia New Zealand (Whitireia) and The Asthma and Respiratory Foundation NZ worked in collaboration to develop four online interactive modules designed specifically for the primary healthcare sector. Method: The Asthma and Respiratory Foundation and Whitireia established the intended learning outcomes and vision for the packages. New and existing clinical content was reviewed and an outline, storyboard and prototype for four modules was created. All four modules were initially created using Articulate Storyline Two, and later upgraded to Articulate 360 and were accessed via the CPD@Whitireia Moodle Learning Management System (LMS). Modules were piloted and evaluated by regional healthcare providers using Kirkpatrick’s Four Levels of Evaluation model, with evaluative data recorded on completion of the modules and at six-week follow-up. Sixteen primary healthcare nurses participated in the pilot and evaluation. There were significant increases in knowledge relating to all learning outcomes for all four modules (p<0.01). Respondents reported positive experiences with the content of all four modules, with many aspects gaining a 100% satisfaction rating. Similarly, participants found all aspects of all four modules broadly engaging, with many interactive features gaining a 100% satisfaction rating. On follow up, all participants reported that the modules had provided a substantial positive long-term impact on their asthma and COPD patient care. Evaluative pilot data from the Asthma and COPD modules indicates a very positive response from all participants, in terms of learning, experience and engagement with all four modules. Knowledge aligned to the learning outcomes increased significantly following module completion, with follow-up data illustrating that interactive, well designed eLearning CPD modules can help inform and improve patient care.