The 2022 Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) to train physiotherapists in the management of people with spinal cord injuries: a qualitative and quantitative analysis of learners’ experiences and its impact

Study design: Observational. Objectives: To determine learners’ experience and the impact of a Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) conducted to teach physiotherapists about the management of people with spinal cord injuries (SCI). Methods: A SCI MOOC for physiotherapists was run in five languages at the end of 2022. Qualitative and quantitative data were collected from registration details, pre- and post-MOOC Knowledge Assessments, a post-MOOC Evaluation, social media posts and online tracking of websites and emails. Data addressed four questions: reach, participant reaction, change in knowledge/confidence, and change in clinical practice or teaching. Results: 25,737 people from 169 countries registered. Of those who completed the Evaluation (n = 2817), 98% rated the MOOC as “good” or “very good”. Knowledge improved by a median (IQR) of 25% (10 to 45%) in 4016 participants on the Knowledge Assessment. Participants reported increased confidence and intentions to change clinical practice and integrate learnings into teaching. Conclusion: The MOOC effectively increased physiotherapists’ knowledge about managing people with SCI, was well-received, and prompted intentions to change clinical and teaching practices.

Joanne V. Glinsky, Joceam Ilha, Yuan Xiong, Guillermo Gomez, Stephan Rostagnol, Soraya Martin-Manjarrés, Keira Tranter, Stephen Muldoon, Eric Weerts, Lisa A. Harvey