Online Learning in an Epidemiology Curriculum
Abstract: “Blended learning”, a mixture of online and on-campus teaching, is increasingly common and provides particularly beneficial conditions for learning. The focus of this paper is to describe how e-learning and blended-learning features are continuously developed, implemented and evaluated in the Doctoral Program in Epidemiology and the “Swedish INterdisciplinary Graduate School in Register-Based Research” (SINGS) at Karolinska Institutet, Sweden. Epidemiology is the methodological backbone in many medical research disciplines. Population registers constitute a unique source of data collection for epidemiologists and allied disciplines. In the process of choosing online teaching and learning activities it is important to consider the “how”, “what”, “when” and “where” in order to gain benefits. Online modules on the use of registers in research with short videos, animated films, webinars, and quizzes are being developed. Collaborative learning is highlighted and feedback is emphasized.