Abstract
IntroductionThis study aimed to determine whether an 8-week online training program for developing skills in short-course development and delivery was effective in establishing locally driven, sustainable, evidence-based training for local occupational or physical therapists.
MethodologyFive Bangladeshi therapists from a rehabilitation center participated in the course, which was facilitated online by an Australian university. They completed 8 prerecorded modules over a 3-month period, and were assessed in situ on their ability to deliver a tutorial to their peers. A qualitative explanatory case study design was used to evaluate outcomes, drawing on data gathered from precourse and 1-year follow-up surveys, observations (including interactions during the course and final participant presentations), and a postcourse focus group.
ResultsThe course achieved 6 of its 9 objectives, with all participants satisfactorily planning and delivering an evidence-based interactive tutorial to their peers. Participants noted improved competence and confidence in searching for evidence and developing and executing a teaching plan. This was sustained at 1-year review. The key theme was a shift in participants' capacity for teaching and learning. Enablers were multimodal teaching techniques, the presence of a local leader, and the establishment of informal peer support. Barriers were logistical issues such as access to reliable Internet services and late delivery of course materials.
DiscussionOnline distance education can be effective in producing sustainable change in practitioner skills in developing countries. Future programs would benefit from a blended learning approach incorporating face-to-face instructor contact.