The Potential Role of mLearning for the Training of Health Workers in Some Selected Health Science Colleges in Ethiopia

No Thumbnail Available

Date

2013-06

Journal Title

Journal ISSN

Volume Title

Publisher

Addis Ababa Univerisity

Abstract

Regardless of the high potential role thought of mobile device in some pilot projects, there is no enough evidence that describes the potential role of mLearning for the training of health workers in Ethiopia. This study has the objective of assessing the potential role of mLearning for the training of health workers in Ethiopia. Mixed design cross sectional method has been employed where by a self administered questionnaire was designed and distributed to a total of forty (40) health workers and thirty(30) trainers working in Dr Tewelde, Debrebirhan and Shashamane Health Science Colleges.Policy makers from Federal Ministry of Health has also been included in the study. In-depth interview was also conducted with key informants. There were six pilot mLearning projects tested in Ethiopia specifically meant to improve the knowledge and skill of health workers. This study explored the potential of mLearning and developed mLearning model for the training of health workers in Ethiopia. The finding of this study shows that health workers, trainers and policy makers and alike see much potential in using mLearning for the training of health workers to improve the quality of training provided in the Health Science Colleges by loading audio-visual teaching aids, short message service, improving communication between trainers and students, and ultimately equipping learners with the necessary knowledge and skill for better health outcomes.

Description

Keywords

Educational research

Citation