The learner's perspectives of free, online, international CME in rehabilitation: a mixed methods analysis.

Abstract

Abstract: The COVID-19 pandemic spurred global engagement with continuing medical education (CME). The Canadian Advances in Neuro-Orthopedics for Spasticity Consortium's free online platform offering interdisciplinary expert lectures on spasticity saw parallel growth. We analysed 1733 responses from 41 post-session surveys to assess the learner's perspectives of online CME using a convergent mixed-methods design. The qualitative analysis produced four themes: [1] event value and satisfaction (subthemes: quality and impact of speakers, accessibility of the online format, discussions and interactions, and the benefits of visual learning), [2] increased competence (subthemes: increased knowledge, intent to apply, and increased confidence), [3] inspiring collaboration (subthemes: need for multidisciplinary teams, international collaboration, and effective communication tools), [4] considerations and recommendations (subthemes: relevance to developing countries, technical aspects, and academic level of content). Quantitative analyses supported these findings, showing high levels of satisfaction and perceived gains in knowledge. Notably, 88% of participants indicated intent to apply their knowledge, and 84% stated that it would enhance their competence. These results underscore the importance of interaction in online education and highlights a need for communication skills training to facilitate multidisciplinary teamwork. The findings revealed disparities in perceptions of the academic difficulty of CME, which warrants investigation into participants' CME selection.