E-learning versus face-to-face training: Comparison of two learning methods for Lyme borreliosis

Objectives: To compare two learning methods for Lyme disease (e-learning versus face-to-face training) to assess knowledge and know-how. Methods: The study population was volunteer general medicine residents and family physicians (FP). Face-to-face training on Lyme disease was offered to each group. E-learning training was then offered to those who had not attended the face-to-face training. Theoretical knowledge was assessed by an identical pre- and post-test questionnaire and know-how by a script concordance test. Results: Seventy learners (47 FPs and 23 general medicine residents) were included in the face-to-face training group and 61 (33 FPs and 28 general medicine residents) in the e-learning group. The pre- and post-test scores were significantly improved in the FP group (difference of 29.3 +/- 1.9 [P < 0.0001] out of 100) as well as in the general medicine resident group (difference of 38.2 +/- 2.7 [P < 0.0001] out of 100). E-learning was more effective than face-to-face training, particularly among general medicine residents (progression of mean difference of 44.3 +/- 3.4/100 vs. 30.9 +/- 4.0/100; P= 0.0138) and to a lesser extent among FPs (progression of 25.3 +/- 2.3/100 vs. 31.9 +/- 2.7/100; P= 0.0757). Forty-six script concordance tests were completed by FPs and 20 by general medicine residents. Script concordance test results did not seem significant between the subgroups. Conclusions: E-learning seems to be a good alternative to face-to-face training for Lyme disease. It seems to be more effective than face-to-face training for the acquisition of theoretical knowledge. The script concordance test evaluation of know-how did not show any difference between the two learning methods.