Abstract
Background: Relatively little is known regarding the effectiveness of e-learning in health care or the demographics of or perception of participating staff as to the utility of this form of learning.
Methods: The on-line infection control module engages the learner through interactive videos and animation. The module consists of a pre-quiz; lessons; a post-quiz; and a participant survey accessed and tracked through a learning management system.
Results: From March to July 2006, 280 users were registered. Most participants (75%) were less than 40 years and reported an average of 6.9 years of healthcare experience. The majority completed the course from Monday to Friday during the day shift. Average time to take the course, survey and quizzes was 45 minutes. There was a significant difference between the average pre and post-test score (18.2 and 21.84/25; p<0.001). Users rated the course highly for accessibility, ease of use, ability to maintain their interest and effectiveness in teaching content.
Conclusions: The on-line infection control course was able to transfer knowledge in an enjoyable manner. Younger staff access the course most frequently and participation by weekend staff remains under utilized.
