Developing a Web‐based learning network for continuing medical education

Describes the development in Australia of TeleQACE, a Web‐based learning environment, which allows clinicians to participate in interactive learning at times that suit them. The design addressed the balance between richness of content and bandwidth to reach geographically dispersed regions. The guiding philosophy was shared knowledge and interaction based around actual experience and cases developed by practicing academic general practitioners in consultation with specialists. A constructivist approach, focused on discussion to build a “basic case” into an “advanced case” over a learning cycle of 13‐16 weeks, was adopted. Knowledge gaps and suggestions from participants guided the development of a “basic” case into its “advanced” equivalent which was re‐presented to the participants, accompanied by relevant reference material, for reflection and interaction. The final outcome was a “model case”, archived for ongoing reference by the group. Participation rates appear to be consistent with other Internet‐based continuing medical education programs.