The development of an electronic distance learning course in health informatics

Since 1997 the authors have been involved in the development of a distance learning course in health informatics. The course is delivered via CD-ROM and the Internet. During this process we have learned valuable lessons about computer-assisted collaboration and cooperative work. In particular we have developed methods of using the software tools available for communication and education. We believe that electronic distance learning offers a realistic means of providing education in health informatics and other fields to students whom for reasons of geography or work commitments would not be able to participate in a conventional course.UnpublishedBentley, R., W. Appelt, et al. (1997). “Basic Support for Cooperative Work on the World Wide Web.” International Journal of Human-Computer Studies 46(6): 827-846. Coiera, E. (1997). Guide to Medical Informatics, the Internet and Telemedicine. London, Chapman & Hall. Downes, S. (1998). The Future of online learning. NAWEB'98 Hirumi, A. (1996). “Interactivity, Distance Education and Instructional Systems Design Converge on the Information Superhighway.” Journal of Research on Computing in Education 29(1): 1-16. IMIA (1998). Recommendations for a curriculum in Medical Informatics, IMIA www.imia.org Koppi, A., J. R. Lublin, et al. (1997). “Effective teaching and learning in a High-tech Environment.” Innovations in Education and Training International 34(4): 245-251. van Bemmel, J. and M. Musan (1997). The Handbook of Medical Informatics, Springer