Ophthalmology embraces e-learning revolution

Ophthalmic education is entering a new era of learner-centred pedagogy with rich possibilities to use sophisticated multimedia content, video and other interactive tools to enhance the learning experience. 'The goal is to provide learners with highly interactive, assessed and accredited content that they can use in their own time to complement their own learning,' ESCRS E-Learning Co-Ordinator Brendan Strong told the 2013 SOE Congress in Copenhagen, Denmark. Mr Strong has co-ordinated the iLearn e-learning platform for the ESCRS. By allowing ESCRS members free access to learning material in a flexible manner to suit their own schedule and pace of learning, iLearn seeks to meet the growing demand for learner-driven education that liberates learning from the traditional classroom environment. Much of the course content is also CMEaccredited, thereby enhancing its appeal to both trainee and more experienced ophthalmologists. 'The idea behind iLearn is essentially to provide an online space where ESCRS members can learn, share and develop their knowledge of cataract and refractive surgery from fundamental concepts to advanced skills using assessed, accredited and self-reflective activities and resources,' said Mr Strong. E-learning opens up new possibilities to really empower the end user, he said. 'With iLearn we really wanted to create something more than simple recorded presentations and surgical videos, although surgical videos are included. The purpose was – and still is – to get learners involved and engaged,' he said. It is this process of active engagement which goes to the heart of the e-learning process and is one of the undoubted strengths of the iLearn approach compared to traditional instructor-driven learning. Future plans for the iLearn platform include compatibility for iPad use and enhanced use of forums to foster discussion and exchanges among users. Further details about iLearn are available through the ESCRS website at www.escrs.org at http://elearning.escrs.org/login/