Design and development of an e-learning patient education program for self-management support in patients with rheumatoid arthritis
Line Raunsbæk Knudsen, Kirsten Lomborg, Annette de Thurah
Abstract
Objective: To develop an e-learning education program targeting patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Methods: The development process involved content specification and creative design. It was theoretically framed within theories of multimedia learning and entertainment-education and empirically based on evidence of patient education in rheumatoid arthritis and focus group discussions with stakeholders. We conducted a feasibility test among ten patients to assess the acceptability and usability of the program, and to identify areas to be adjusted. Results: Based on this, an e-learning program covering the disease course, examinations, treatment, and daily life, was created. It combines animations, videos, podcasts, text, speech, and tests. Test persons found the program feasible-that is, clear in content and easy to understand with a suitable pace and coherence between graphics, speech, and text. Conclusion: This e-learning program is based on solid theoretical knowledge that meets users' needs and is easy to use. Innovation: This study contributes to the innovation of health care by the development of a new digital tool for patient education.