DIGITAL LEARNING AND E-LEARNING: TRANSFORMING PHYSIOTHERAPY EDUCATION

Abstract

E-learning and digital learning platforms have greatly enhanced the education in physiotherapy in the context of flexibility, access and quality of learning. These applications support students and professionals with the online lectures, virtual simulations and interactive learning capabilities. In this chapter, the concept of digitalization of physiotherapy education, its types, its applications, advantages, and limitations, along with future trends, have been discussed. Various forms of e-learning systems such as Learning Management System (LMS), Video-based learning, Social Learning Environment (SLE), and gamification were discussed, and they can be used to promote theoretical knowledge, clinical reasoning and student activity. A qualitative study that was carried out at Physiotherapy Institute in Australia on undergraduate physiotherapy students during the COVID-19 pandemic is also discussed in this chapter and its aim is to establish the e-learning experience of the students. The findings tested that students felt burdened, anxious, and demotivated because of the completely online education, and felt that they needed the possibility to interact with their peers, experience a real-life education and acquire practical skills. Students recommended a form of blended learning phenomenon whereby the theory study would be online but practical skill practice would be offline/physically. In this chapter, we will speak about the change that Artificial Intelligence (AI), Virtual Reality (VR), and Augmented Reality (AR) are bringing in the area of physiotherapy education. We arrive at the conclusion then that, although Digital and E-learning is a valuable tool in theoretical learning, a hands on training is necessary to the full development of clinical skills.