Technology-enhanced learning/distance education: market survey of occupational health and safety professionals | JoVE Visualize

Technology-enhanced learning/distance education: market survey of occupational health and safety professionals

V Carlson¹, D K Olson

¹Guidant Sales Corp, Arden Hills, Minn, USA.

AIHAJ : a Journal for the Science of Occupational and Environmental Health and Safety|July 4, 2001

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

Occupational health and safety professionals show strong interest in distance education for continuing education and academic degrees. Technology-enhanced learning (TEL) is a preferred method for these professionals to meet their educational needs.

Area of Science:

Occupational Health and Safety
Educational Technology
Distance Learning

Background:

Continuing education and academic degrees are crucial for occupational health and safety professionals.
Traditional learning methods may not always meet the needs of busy professionals.
Technology-enhanced learning (TEL) offers a flexible alternative.

Purpose of the Study:

To assess the interest of occupational health and safety professionals in distance education.
To identify preferred TEL methods and areas of study.
To understand the importance of on-campus components and reimbursement for educational costs.

Main Methods:

A mail survey was conducted among 800 members of professional associations in the Midwest region.
Participants included members of the American Industrial Hygiene Association, American Association of Occupational Health Nurses, and American Society of Safety Engineers.
The survey assessed interest in distance education and TEL for continuing education and academic pursuits.

Main Results:

87.4% of respondents expressed high likelihood to participate in distance education.
Top areas of interest included occupational health (73%), injury prevention and control (60%), and industrial hygiene (53%).
79% found an on-campus component unimportant, and 68% received educational cost reimbursement.

Conclusions:

Occupational health and safety professionals are receptive to distance education utilizing TEL.
TEL methodologies can effectively meet the educational needs of this professional group.
Further research and sharing of outcomes are recommended to advance knowledge on TEL strategies in this field.