OBJECTIVE:
Online learning has changed medical education,
but many “educational” websites do not employ principles of
effective learning. This article will assist readers in developing
effective educational websites by integrating principles of
active learning with the unique features of the Web.
DESIGN:
Narrative review.
RESULTS:
The key steps in developing an effective educational
website are: Perform a needs analysis and specify goals
and objectives; determine technical resources and needs;
evaluate preexisting software and use it if it fully meets your
needs; secure commitment from all participants and identify
and address potential barriers to implementation; develop content
in close coordination with website design (appropriately
use multimedia, hyperlinks, and online communication) and
follow a timeline; encourage active learning (self-assessment,
reflection, self-directed learning, problem-based learning,
learner interaction, and feedback); facilitate and plan to
encourage use by the learner (make website accessible and
user-friendly, provide time for learning, and motivate learners);
evaluate learners and course; pilot the website before full
implementation; and plan to monitor online communication
and maintain the site by resolving technical problems, periodically
verifying hyperlinks, and regularly updating content.
CONCLUSION:
Teaching on the Web involves more than putting
together a colorful webpage. By consistently employing
principles of effective learning, educators will unlock the full
potential of Web-based medical education.
KEY WORDS:
Internet; medical education; World Wide Web;
e-learning; curriculum development.
J GEN INTERN MED 2004;19:698–707.