ISBT eLearning workshop launches new online case study

In order to provide content that is of value to members, it is important for ISBT to actively engage members in discussion on issues including the types of material that are in greatest need, what content does not exist elsewhere that ISBT can provide, and which delivery formats are of greatest value. The 34th Regional ISBT Congress in Cape Town, South Africa, provided an ideal opportunity to engage directly with members in a workshop format.

Over forty ISBT members attended the workshop titled ISBT eLearning – current courses in immunohaematology and future directions. The session was chaired by ISBT Vice-President Professor Jill Storry. Forty percent of workshop attendees were from African countries, while Europe, South-East Asia, Western Pacific and North and Latin American regions were also well represented.

Around half of attendees had completed some ISBT eLearning within the previous year. Two-thirds indicated that online learning is currently used in their workplace, and a similar number were aware of or had used the ISBT publication Introduction to Blood Transfusion: from donor to recipient. Around ten percent had not undertaken any online learning in the past. The ability to gain continuing education points from online learning was important to three quarters of participants. While the majority of those present would use a desktop PC or laptop computer to access online learning, 14% of attendees would prefer to use a mobile phone.

Valuable insight was gained on member views regarding the future of eLearning at both workplace and individual levels, how ISBT can best contribute to the needs of the profession, and what eLearning content is most needed.