OWL Turns One!
08 March 2011
It’s just over a year since the GPEP Online Web Learning platform OWL was launched, and what a year OWL has had!
Developed to support and help deliver the GPEP1 programme to registrars, teachers and medical educators throughout New Zealand, it appears the majority of registrars have found it an excellent way of supporting their learning and keeping them up-to-date with events in their region.
When surveyed at the end of the year, 91% agreed it was either a good, very good or excellent way of supporting their learning. They also agreed it was an effective communication tool for their region (92% reporting good, very good or excellent).
That’s not to say there weren't teething problems along the way as OWL began its maiden flight. Logging in provided a challenge to many and broken links at other sites caused a problem now and again but as 2010 progressed and the majority of feedback along the way was so positive it seemed natural that we should expand OWL to GPEP2 and Rural Hospital Medicine RHM. We went live to GPEP2 at the beginning of October – 8 months after GPEP1. It hosted a simple information home page and forum facility in readiness for the new GPEP2 programme rolled out this year. GPEP2 now has its own training scaffolds and a wealth of resources for all GPEP2 senior registrars.
Medical educators and teachers can expect more from OWL this year and plans are afoot for Fellows to have access with resources to support their professional development.