Distance Learning Resources at Geriatric Education Centers
Title:
Distance Learning Resources at Geriatric Education Centers
Author:
McBride, Melen R. Brasfield Kuder, Linda Gamel, Nona N.
Appeared in:
Gerontology & geriatrics education
Paging:
Volume 21 (2001) nr. 1-2 pages 67-79
Year:
2001-01-15
Contents:
Under the Geriatric Initiatives of the Bureau of Health Professions, Health Resources and Services Administration, USDHHS, Geriatric Education Centers (GEC) are established to ensure quality health care for older adults through geriatric and gerontology education. Distance Learning (DL) technology is an approach GECs are using to keep up with the demands for training and other resources. A questionnaire was distributed to 44 GECs to determine use of DL methods. Based on 33 responses, a return rate of 69%, 15 GECs offer a range of DL geriatric training programs. Eighty-five percent intend to have training programs using DL technology by the year 2000. GECs also use DL technology to conduct meetings, plan conferences, hold clinical consultations, conduct research, and disseminate information. Formal faculty training on DL is offered at six Centers; however, 15% are unable to access advanced technology. Results show a range of available DL geriatric educational resources and a strong interest to expand resources using DL technology. Financial support and sustainabil-ity of programs are important concerns. Recommendations are discussed, and the findings provide a beginning database on DL activities among GECs.