The 2022 Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) to train physiotherapists in the management of people with spinal cord injuries: a qualitative and quantitative analysis of learners’ experiences and its impact

Spinal Cord, 2023 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41393-023-00922-1 · Published: August 14, 2023

Spinal Cord Injury Education Rehabilitation

Simple Explanation

Physiotherapists often lack sufficient training in managing spinal cord injuries (SCI) during their formal education. This MOOC aimed to address this gap by providing specialized training. The MOOC was designed as a 5-week online course, offered in multiple languages, and focused on providing practical knowledge and skills for managing individuals with SCI. The study evaluated the MOOC's reach, effectiveness, participant reactions, and whether it influenced changes in clinical practice or teaching methods among physiotherapists.

Study Duration

5 weeks

Participants

25,737 people from 169 countries

Evidence Level

Observational

Key Findings

1
The MOOC reached a large number of participants globally, with over 25,000 registrants from 169 countries.
2
Participants' knowledge significantly improved, with a median increase of 25% on knowledge assessments after completing the MOOC.
3
The vast majority of participants rated the MOOC positively, and many indicated intentions to change their clinical practice and teaching methods based on what they learned.

Research Summary

The study evaluated a MOOC designed to train physiotherapists in the management of people with SCI, focusing on its reach, effectiveness, participant reactions, and impact on clinical practice. The MOOC successfully reached a global audience, improved participants' knowledge, and was well-received, with many participants expressing intentions to change their clinical practice. While the MOOC showed positive outcomes, the study acknowledges limitations such as the reliance on self-reported data and the difficulty in objectively measuring changes in clinical practice.

Practical Implications

Global Upskilling

MOOCs can efficiently upskill physiotherapists worldwide in specialized areas like SCI management, especially in regions with limited training opportunities.

Curriculum Enhancement

The MOOC format can serve as a valuable supplement to traditional physiotherapy education, addressing gaps in SCI-specific knowledge and skills.

Online Resource Utilization

Integrating resources like online exercise prescription software (e.g., www.physiotherapyexercises.com) enhances practical application and engagement in online learning.

Study Limitations

1
Reliance on self-reported data may introduce bias in assessing changes in clinical practice and teaching methods.
2
Completion rates varied across different components of the MOOC, making it challenging to accurately assess participant engagement and attrition.
3
The knowledge assessments primarily tested factual recall and did not fully capture changes in clinical skills.

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?

Back to Spinal Cord Injury