The Development of an Interactive Multimedia E-Learning Module for Functional Cognition

McKenzie R. Behrendt, University of Nebraska Medical CenterFollow
Stacy Smallfield, University of Nebraska Medical CenterFollow

Document Type (Journals)

Educational Innovations

Abstract

The rise in technology, social media, and video has led to the desire for short, interactive, and visually appealing instructional materials. Modern learners want flexibility, repeatability, accessibility, and low-stakes knowledge checks. A multimedia e-learning module may meet the learner’s desires. This article describes the conception, development, and implementation of a free, interactive, multimedia e-learning module designed to enhance understanding and application of occupational therapy (OT) theoretical approaches to address functional cognition. We discuss the considerations for choosing a multimedia e-learning module as an instructional tool, drawing from existing research demonstrating its effectiveness. Particularly, a multimedia e-learning module potentially benefits addressing complex topics such as functional cognition, and to our knowledge there appears to be no open-access e-learning modules on OT’s role in addressing functional cognition. As this multimedia e-learning module is publicly available and provides opportunities for repeated use by many learners, its applicability extends beyond the classroom to practitioners. This article may guide future OT educators considering creating this teaching modality by detailing the development processes, skills, and supports needed for module creation. We outline collaborative team roles and responsibilities, the development timeline, incorporation of multimedia elements, and integration of accessibility features. We report on how tools and resources influenced the creation and assessed the use of our multimedia e-learning module. We highlight the benefits, challenges, and barriers to creating a multimedia e-learning module for a development team. Overall, developing a multimedia e-learning module is one way to contribute to the profession and promote scholarship among OT faculty and students.

Biography

McKenzie Behrendt, OTD, OTR/L is an Assistant Professor in the Occupational Therapy Program, Department of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, College of Allied Health Professions, at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, Kearney, NE.

Stacy Smallfield, DrOT, OTR/L, BCG, FAOTA is Associate Program Director, Doctoral Capstone Coordinator, and Professor in the Occupational Therapy Program Department of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, College of Allied Health Professions, at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE.

Declaration of Interest

The authors report no declarations of interest.

Recommended Citation

Behrendt, M. R., & Smallfield, S. (2024). The Development of an Interactive Multimedia E-Learning Module for Functional Cognition. Journal of Occupational Therapy Education, 8 (4). https://doi.org/10.26681/jote.2024.080417