210 THE DEVELOPMENT OF A MULTIMEDIA WEB SITE FOR INSTRUCTION OF PEDIATRIC ONCOLOGY

PurposeDeficiencies in pediatric oncology (PO) training for residents have been identified internationally. One of the main reasons for this is lack of exposure to pediatric patients during residency training. The goal of this project is to develop a series of Web-based learning modules to supplement current teaching in this area.MethodsA Web-based survey was sent to Canadian radiation oncology (RO) program directors and Canadian RO residents. The survey was designed to identify the limitations of current training curriculum and supplemental materials to enhance it. Survey results guided Web site development. The curriculum was developed using teaching modules to focus on specific pediatric tumor sites. Modules followed a common format, reviewing the epidemiology, pathology, radiology, and treatment planning for each tumor. A self-assessment tool was included at the end of the modules, allowing learners to evaluate their grasp of topics.ResultsSurvey results indicated a need for novel teaching methods in pediatric RO. One hundred percent (10/10) of Canadian RO program directors and 66% (69 of 106) of Canadian RO residents responded to the survey. More than 55% (38 of 69) of residents felt that teaching in pediatric RO was inadequate in comparison with other areas of RO. Fifty-five percent (15 of 27) of senior residents felt unprepared for questions in pediatric RO on qualifying board examinations. Over 90% (63 of 69) of respondents felt that a Web-based teaching tool would be a useful supplement to traditional teaching methods. Four modules have been written to date. Theses include brain tumors, sarcomas, Wilms' tumor, and pediatric specialty tumors. Web development for the project is continuing. Efforts are being made to increase the use of problem-based learning and clinical skills in the Web site. Preliminary results indicate that users find this Web site useful to supplement their learning in PO.ConclusionsThis is a unique project utilizing Web-based learning modules to teach pediatric RO. This educational program will allow self-directed study in the area of pediatric RO, providing more effective learning of this challenging yet essential area of study.