Studying health information from a distance: the impact of a multimedia case study

This paper describes a project to enhance the learning experience of students, in which a multimedia healthcare case study and associated tasks are being developed and evaluated within the Distance Learning MSc in Health Informatics programme at the University of Sheffield. The paper provides background context and motivation for the case study, followed by a description of its content, which is based upon a general practice change management scenario. The way in which this material was researched and developed is reviewed, covering rationale, methodology and the strategy for evaluation. Early evaluation suggests that the introduction of the case study is having a positive effect on the problem of isolation experienced by students on distance learning courses. The paper also reflects on the overheads of this project. Those with substantial experience in computer-assisted learning should be involved at an early stage, and planning and sequencing of both the case study itself and between the case study and the course should be given attention. The paper concludes that benefits of the approach are significant, and include better integration of course modules, shared decision making and group problem solving.