Continuous learning for health care workers in Tanzania : Design recommendations for an e-learning system within a health portal

Abstract: Continuous learning for health care workers in Tanzania - Design recommendations for an e-learning system within a health portal   This report describes a Master thesis conducted at the Human-Computer Interaction Department at KTH The Royal Institute of Technology. The project is based on a nine weeks field study in Tanzania during the spring and summer 2013. The field study was conducted as a Minor Field Study (MFS) financed through Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency, SIDA and ÅF. The aim has been to investigate the users interest, needs and expectations on an e-learning system. Specifically designed for the health care workers in Tanzania, to improve and developed their knowledge within their specific work area. The investigation of these questions resulted in design recommendations that can be used as a basis for future development. The users and their expectations and needs of the e-learning system were mapped down through observations, interviews and questionnaires. The user group was positive to an e-learning system and is interested in ICT, Information and communication technology. The most important result from the research is that to get a successful project, the involvement of the users is critical. Otherwise there is a risk that the user will not use the product. Another important result is that the user does not have his or hers own computer or Internet connection, they are dependent on the hospitals devices and connection. At the same time their schedule at the hospital is very tight and it will be a challenge to find time and a place were the health care workers can use the system. This project is a part of a project called the National Health Portal in Tanzania. It is a co-operation between Sweden and Tanzania about information and communication technologies (ICT) in the health care in Tanzania, in order to facilitate the work. Keywords: ICT, user centered design, e-learning, health care, Minor Field Study, Tanzania