Development, Implementation, and Evaluation of an e-Learning in Integrative Oncology for Physicians and Students Involving Experts and Learners: Experiences and Recommendations

Abstract

In this project, an e-Learning program for complementary and integrative medicine in oncology was systematically developed, implemented, and evaluated in a stepwise procedure. Learning objectives and content were defined within the KOKON project network, considering the educational competencies for integrative oncology. To design a valuable e-Learning, experts were involved in all relevant steps of the process, as well as stakeholders from various target groups (undergraduates: medicine students, postgraduates: oncology physicians). We used mixed methods including quantitative surveys, progress tests, and qualitative focus groups. The developed e-Learning program led to a significant measurable knowledge gain about complementary and integrative medicine. In parallel, physicians and students were subjectively satisfied with the training. For the majority of e-Learning elements, the needs of both target groups are comparable. Furthermore, both groups emphasized the value of formative assessment tools for gaining knowledge. From the various surveys and experiences collected in this project, we derive recommendations for others developing e-Learning programs.

Knowledge and attitudes towards medicinal cannabis and complementary and integrative medicine (CIM): a survey of healthcare professionals working in a cancer hospital in Australia

“…Similar to the program of the National Cancer Institute designated cancer centres in the US have developed or are developing integrative oncology programs to assist, along with guidelines to support providers who participate in these programs [ 39 , 40 ]. This would require the training of healthcare professionals in integrative oncology; competencies and training options are emerging [ 41 , 42 ].…”

Effects of training oncology physicians advising patients on complementary and integrative therapies on patient‐reported outcomes: 2‐year follow‐up of the multi‐center, cluster‐randomized KOKON‐KTO study

“…6,7 To ensure the quality and evidence-based advice of CIM consultations, cancer patients should be consulted by their oncology phycisian as there might be a risk of non-adherence to cancer treatment if CIM consultations are conducted by non-medical personnel. 8 To close the gap between patients' CIM use and oncology physician's CIM communication skills, the Competence Network for Complementary Medicine (short KOKON) 9 funded by the German Cancer Aid (grant number: Deutsche Krebshilfe; grants 109863 and 70112369) developed, amongst others, a decision-making aid for cancer patients on finding reputable CIM providers, 10 a CIM training framework for oncology physicians 11 including the KOKON-KTO consultation manual 12,13 and educational competencies for integrative oncology to be included in medical curricula. 14,15 Moreover, the subsequent KOKON-KTO study evaluated the effects of a onetime-only CIM consultation led by oncology physicians on patient-and physician-reported outcomes, compared to only providing a leaflet on reputable CIM websites alongside a brief introduction by the oncology physician.…”