The use of Blackboard to support Obstetrics & Gynaecology Training

 

Objective: The COVID-19 pandemic created huge challenges for trainees across the country. Within the Yorkshire & Humber Deanery we piloted the use of Blackboard to support training for all trainees. The aim was to improve access to courses and encourage pan-deanery working across a large geographical area. It formed part of the training recovery plan to ensure training opportunities were maximised during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Design: The Blackboard pilot scheme was commissioned by Health Education England within all postgraduate schools in Yorkshire & Humber. Each Head of School could then decide an implementation strategy. Within obstetrics and gynaecology, a Blackboard lead was appointed. This consisted of 1 trainee and 1 consultant. They then designed how this resource could be used and implemented this.

Method: All trainees were given a unique log on to the blackboard system, which is a virtual learning environment. A series of organisations were created to link specific groups of trainees. Courses that were pre-existing were transferred on to the blackboard system with a specific area for each course, there were 43 different courses that made up our Yorkshire Modular Training Framework. Within the specified area trainees and trainers could review course documentation, presentations, discussion boards and any additional resources. Trainees could book onto courses using the Blackboard HELP system. Teaching sessions were designed and delivered to facilitators to encourage them to use the interactive features within blackboard such as polling, drawing and use of the chat function.

Results: We have currently run over 70 courses on blackboard. This allows resources and presentations to be stored and these can be reviewed later. There are now several organisations which allow specific events such as exam study groups to meet through blackboard collaborate and share resources. This has significantly reduced travel time and has maximised networking and sharing of knowledge between West, East and South Yorkshire.

Conclusions: Blackboard is now an essential resource for O&G trainees within Yorkshire & Humber. It provides a great platform for teaching and learning. It also allows notices to be shared quickly between all trainees across the region including adverts for webinars, OOPE opportunities and links to external bodies of interest. It has allowed us to develop several new initiatives through the trainees committee, for exam preparation and the development of a surgical education hub.