Usability of Telemedicine as a Collaborative Learning Platform Tool for Medical Students

Abstract

Aims: One of the fundamental characteristics of information technology is its versatility. Because of that, it is possible to develop educational programs using this type of technology, specifically telemedicine. This article reports the development of two teaching and learning tools entitled “Youknow” and “SANA” and describes the experience of teachers and medical students in these new teaching methodologies. Materials and methods: Held at the Federal University of the State of Rio de Janeiro – UNIRIO, in the University Hospital Gaffrée Guinle, this experience was leaded by 3rd year students of medical school, attending the course of medical practice, which in turn defines the entry of students in the hospital routine. Results: The new information technologies described throughout the article sought free dialogue between teacher-student and medical community, developing a collaborative form of teaching and learning among teachers and students. Conclusion: From this experience, it was considered feasible to use telemedicine as a basis to create teaching and learning tools for students and teachers of undergraduate medicine, as well as away from the traditional teaching methodology, archaic and hierarchical, fosters student´s autonomy and encourages inter and intrapersonal relationships among students, doctors, teachers and community.