by Mélanie Chamel, University of Strasbourg, France.
SENS is a university initiative aimed at advancing education in digital health. Its primary goal is to offer specialised degree programs for healthcare and paramedical professionals, focusing on key areas such as cybersecurity, health data management, digital communication, and telemedicine. Additionally, SENS seeks to cultivate a robust digital health ecosystem that encourages innovation and collaboration. Another key objective is the creation of innovative classrooms equipped with flexible furniture and interactive touchscreens, promoting an engaging learning environment.
This initiative not only transforms healthcare education for the digital era but also underscores the vital role of media in training programs, preparing future professionals to navigate the complexities of the digital healthcare landscape.
Technology in training
In this project, we propose a training program designed to prepare future educators in digital health through a hybrid and innovative learning model. This model is specifically adapted for students who are working simultaneously, as it offers accessibility and flexibility. During face-to-face sessions, participants engage in interactive learning activities related to digital health, including the development of cybersecurity topics through serious games, exploration of the digital health landscape via board games, and course design using H5P on the Moodle platform. Furthermore, these future educators will gain hands on experience in creating simulation-based learning courses, utilising simulators available in the university’s simulation unit. This multifaceted approach will equip them to effectively teach their future students about digital health, employing a variety of pedagogical methods and activities.
Our diploma program also includes an online training component where students participate in an educational escape game and experiment with AI tools, developing skills in formulating AI queries and creating pedagogical scenarios tailored to modern learning environments.
In the context of our hybrid training programs, monitoring student progress and attendance during remote sessions is essential. To facilitate this process, we utilise a plugin called Attestoodle within the Moodle platform, which functions as our course management system. This tool enables effective data tracking, allowing the pedagogical team to offer personalised support tailored to the specific needs of each learner.
Success and challenges
The key to successfully integrating media and technology into our digital health program is the adaptability and diversity of media resources, which address the varied learning needs of students. Offering multiple formats enhances engagement and comprehension. The inclusion of multimedia elements—such as text, audio, video, graphics, animations, and simulations— creates a dynamic and interactive learning experience that caters to different learning styles and improves information retention. Moreover, the flexibility of the courses, accessible anytime via our platform, allows students to review content at their own pace, making learning more accessible and convenient.
However, integrating multimedia into education comes with challenges, with resistance to change being a significant obstacle. To address this, we provide educators with resources on comprehensive change management strategies, helping to build their confidence in using technology. Overcoming barriers like time constraints, resource limitations, and gaps in ICT skills requires a multifaceted approach, including providing necessary hardware and educational support. It is essential that multimedia tools are developed with clear educational objectives, ensuring they offer meaningful experiences for both educators and students.
Ultimately, collaboration among educational institutions, policymakers, and technology developers is essential for fostering an environment that facilitates effective multimedia integration in teaching and learning.
Conclusion
In summary, the core objectives of SENS are twofold: to thoughtfully integrate media and technologies, prioritising their educational value over technical specifications, and offer a modern, context-driven learning experience grounded in innovative pedagogical methods. If you want to know more about the project, you can visit our website: https://sens-sante-numerique.unistra.fr/
Author
Mélanie Chamel, Educational Engineer at the University of Strasbourg, France.
