An innovative approach to online learning in adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer care — ASN Events
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An innovative approach to online learning in adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer care (#102)

Samantha A Van Staalduinen 1 2 3 , Kate Thompson 1 , Lisa Orme 1 , Andrea Krelle 2 3 4 , Susan M Sawyer 2 3 4
  1. ONTrac at Peter Mac Victorian Adolescent & Young Adult Cancer Service, East Melbourne, VIC, Australia
  2. The Centre for Adolescent Health, The Royal Children’s Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
  3. Department of Paediatrics; Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
  4. Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia

Background

Australia has prioritised the development of AYA-specific health professional education and training alongside the establishment of specialist clinical services in efforts to improve outcomes for this unique group of cancer patients. Two free online learning modules have been developed as a complement to the University of Melbourne’s Graduate Certificate in Adolescent Health & Wellbeing (Oncology), providing an internationally available, introductory level professional development opportunity to anyone working with young people experiencing cancer.

Method

Learning modules have been developed using spaced education, an approach found in multiple US-based and international randomised controlled trials to improve knowledge acquisition, increase long-term knowledge retention and effectively change behaviour. The modules are comprised entirely of multiple choice questions and answers delivered via email to participants at regular intervals on their desktop computer, tablet or mobile phone. Participants receive immediate detailed feedback, along with evidence-based information, key messages and resources.

Outcomes

202 learners from across Australia and internationally have enrolled since the modules were launched in June 2013; 103 participants have completed one or both modules (50.1%). Data from an ongoing self-reported questionnaire electronically administered to learners upon completion of each module demonstrates multidisciplinary uptake across a range of professional settings (response rate = 61.2%). Respondents report improvements in practice skills (71.4%), confidence in working with young people (80.4%) and ability to advocate for young people (78.6%) as a result of participation in the program, and 69.7% report having made changes to their practice or work with this age group. 95.1% of all respondents report they would recommend the modules to others.

Discussion

The modules demonstrate high acceptability by a broad range of learners and appear to be effective and efficient at improving basic knowledge and skills about AYA cancer, though further research is needed to examine long-term retention and behavioural change.

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