Computer assisted instruction in the continuing education of health professionals

Abstract

The rapid increase in new knowledge in health care has resulted in the implementation of continuing education requirements for many health professions. Computer assisted instruction (CAI) is one means by which continuing education opportunities can be provided for health professionals. Three main classes of reasons for using CAI are enumerated and explored. The current status of the use of CAI in the continuing education of health professionals is explored. The four major problems facing the further development and expansion of CAI in the continuing education of health professionals are identified as: (1) developing learning materials, (2) proliferation of software and hardware, (3) cost and (4) accreditation of CAI programs. Possible solutions to these problems are explored.