Online delivery of the UWI diploma in the management of HIV infection programme

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: To examine the impact of the expansion of access to the UWI Diploma in the Management of HIV Infection by converting it from fully in-person to a blended model. DESIGN AND METHODS: A proposal to convert the Diploma at the St. Augustine Campus to a blended model was developed for the class of 2014/15. Collaborative approaches were used to design and develop interactive materials in The UWI’s Learning Management System (LMS) myeLearning and 2 courses were delivered online to the 2013-2014 cohort. Post-delivery, an assessment was conducted using online surveys and virtual debrief discussions with students and faculty to assess effectiveness of the content design. RESULTS: Students felt that course content was clear, appropriate, interesting, and applicable to their work. They reported a preference for recorded lectures and relevant videos, anytime/anywhere access and interactions with instructors and peers. Faculty enjoyed building new skills and teaching online. Areas for improvement included reducing workload, better time estimations for activities and grading guidelines. CONCLUSIONS: The online development and delivery of the two courses were implemented. This will increase access to the programme by health care professionals anytime and anywhere.