10 years’ experience of a global and freely accessible e-Learning website for paediatric endocrinology and diabetes

Abstract

The European Society for Paediatric Endocrinology (ESPE) interactive website https://www.espe-elearning.org was first published online in 2012. We describe the various applications of the content of the e-Learning website that has been greatly expanded over the last 10 years. A large module on paediatric diabetes was added with the support of the International Society for Paediatric and Adolescent Diabetes (ISPAD). A separate multilingual module was created that focuses on front-line health care providers in limited resource settings. This module has been well received particularly in targeted parts of the world. E-learning may also be an opportunity to expand or tailor educational activities for learners according to their differing learning needs. The e-Learning website provides guidelines for those interested in general pediatrics, neonatology, clinical genetics and pediatric gynecology. We also describe various new applications such as masterclasses in the format of interactive video lectures and joined and complementary e-Learning/e-Consultation webinars. Finally, international certification was recently realized as e-Learning courses were recognized by the European Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (EACCME). As a result of the social distancing measures introduced to control the COVID-19 pandemic digital education, whether individual or in a virtual classroom setting, has become even more important since e-Learning can connect and engage individuals across geographic boundaries as well as those who live in remote areas. The future of education delivery may include hybrid learning strategies, which include in-person and e-Learning platforms . Combined e-Learning and e-Consultation webinars illustrate how international academic institutions, learned medical specialty societies and networks are uniquely placed to deliver balanced, disease oriented and patient-centred e-Learning education and at the same time as providing expert consultation . Moreover, they are well equipped to maintain professional standards and to offer appropriate accreditation