Complex skill acquisition by performing authentic learning tasks is constrained by limited working memory capacity [Baddeley, A. D. (1992). Working memory. "Science, 255", 556-559]. To prevent cognitive overload, task difficulty and support of each newly selected learning task can be adapted to the learner's competence level and perceived task…

This article describes recent trends that have led to an emphasis on a learner-centered approach to gerontology and geriatrics education especially in distance-based education. A learner-centered approach to education has combined with technological advances to stimulate distance-enhanced education for students in geriatric and gerontology…

Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College's (MGCCC) long-term commitment to providing workforce training in a post-Katrina environment became a catalyst for designing short-term flexible educational opportunities. Providing nationally recognized skills training for the recovery/rebuilding of communities challenged the college to develop innovative,…

The debate surrounding the use of cadavers in teaching anatomy has focused almost exclusively on the pedagogic role of cadaver dissection in medical education. The aim of this study was to explore the wider aspects of a body bequest program for teaching and research into gross anatomy in a University setting. A retrospective audit was undertaken…

"School for Surgeons" is a web-based distance learning program which provides online clinical-based tutorials to surgical trainees. Our aim was to determine surrogates of active participation and to assess the efficacy of methods to improve usage. Server logs of the 82 participants in the "School for Surgeons" were assessed for…

This report examines data on degrees conferred in the health professions and the absorption of these professionals into the economy. Overall, the number of degrees awarded in the health professions increased by 10 percent between 1984-85 and 1991-92. However, during the same period, the number of degrees conferred in all other fields increased by…

Podcasting is used commonly recreationally and is now increasingly used in education. The technology for podcasting is readily available, easy to use and inexpensive, making it an attractive option for providing additional flexible learning resources for students. However, little is known about how podcasts are used by students and the…

Practice analyses are routinely used in support of the development of occupational and professional certification and licensure examinations. These analyses usually survey incumbents to obtain importance ratings of (1) specific tasks and (2) knowledge, skill, and ability (KSA) statements deemed by subject matter experts as essential to safe and…

Health career clubs can increase public knowledge and understanding of health matters, improve the image and status of health workers, and attract qualified recruits to health occupations educational programs. The article traces the development of the health career club concept in New Jersey. (Author/MW)

The author suggests a framework for planning and evaluating continuing education, giving attention to the learner, his objectives, and the learning process; these components are discussed in determining the special characteristics of the continuing education of professional health workers, and a model program is presented. The article is in…

Hospitals need technicians to maintain increasingly complex health care systems. Filling a need first addressed by the military, the education of Biomedical Equipment Technicians is now a growing civilian field. (Author)

The article presents an historical overview of medical assistants, including traditional healers and elementary doctor substitutes, and comments on the current training, functions, and factors influencing the development of required health teams. The overview argues for efficient and effective health care, with equal access of all persons to…

CAREERS IN THE AREAS OF DENTISTRY, DIETETICS, MEDICAL RECORD LIBRARY SCIENCE, MEDICAL LABORATORY WORK, MEDICINE, NURSING, OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY, OPTOMETRY, PHARMACY, PHYSICAL THERAPY, PODIATRY, PUBLIC HEALTH, RADIOLOGIC TECHNOLOGY, SOCIAL WORK, VETERINARY MEDICINE, HOSPITAL ADMINISTRATION, AND OTHER HEALTH OCCUPATIONS ARE DESCRIBED IN TERMS OF THE…

TO OBTAIN PROFESSIONAL JUDGMENTS ON TRAINING MEDICAL ASSISTANTS, 800 4-PAGE QUESTIONNAIRES WERE SENT TO DOCTORS IN THE LONG BEACH AREA. TABLES SHOW THE DATA FROM THE 193 RETURNS. MOST SAID THEY (1) DO NOT WANT STATE LICENSING OF ASSISTANTS, (2) PREFER THOSE TRAINED IN COURSES ACCREDITED BY THE COUNCIL ON MEDICAL EDUCATION, (3) DO NOT LIMIT THEIR…

The document outlines a curriculum designed to teach appropriate nursing skills to students and to prepare them for career opportunities available in health occupations. It is presented in 10 units offering basic information under the headings of: overview of health occupations; communications; medical terminology; fundamental principles of human…