Development of an online, team-based programme in telecare

Few health-care providers have experience of delivering telecare and access to formal training is limited. We therefore developed an online training programme in telecare. A participatory design approach was used and telecare providers were invited to participate in each stage of the course design cycle. The course content, learning activities and learning materials such as video were based on the results of interviews with providers from various health disciplines and observations in the telecare workplace. The approach led to the development of a six-week, multimedia, online course for members of the health-care team. Participants were asked to review the prototype course for completeness and accuracy of content, quality of course design and the utility of learning activities. Overall feedback was favourable. Learners found the course content and learning activities helpful, and it met their needs. The learning material was then reviewed by a panel of experts and further revisions were made. Including providers in the development process led to the creation of a course that appears likely to improve the implementation and practice of telecare.