Web-Based Genetics Institute

Overview

The Web-Based Genetics Institute (WBGI) is hosted by the Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center Blackboard course management system, and will be taught using an asynchronous collaborative learning format. The WBGI will span 18 weeks and is divided into 3 modules. Participants should plan to spend a minimum of 10 hours each week to complete assignments. These assignments will involve readings, independent learning activities, and online group discussions. Registration for the upcoming sessions is open. Sessions will run from:

January 23 - May 29, 2009, $1200 (one-week of 'online' orientation begins January 19th)

Sampling of comments WBGI Participants:

"...will help me to inform others, both nursing students and laypersons of the genetic concepts that are so vital for them to know...another valuable aspect of the course--the fact that you have shown us how to stay up-to-date on the information."
"I believe I can take the information I have learned and better educate patients on issues they have related to genetics. Most importantly, I understand the material better and also have better understanding of what the basic oncology nurse should know about genetics and cancer and also other genetic disorders."
"I was looking for information on the newer genetic testing strategies for newborns and came to realize so much more: the value of pedigrees and family histories, the complexities of obtaining those, cultural variations in genetics and in patterns of seeking health care, internet resources, great textbooks (I was surprised that nurse authors could grasp so much of this field and explain it so well via written format), and all you students and instructors."
"I must admit that when I paid the fee for this course, I did think it was high and wondered if it could 'give me my money's worth.' It did and more. This was my first successfully completed online care, so that barrier has also been overcome."
"I think the WBGI offers a broad-based opportunity for healthcare professionals to develop knowledge about the science of genetics, genetic testing that is available, and importance of utilizing genetic professionals when screening or counseling is conducted. It was a great "jumping off" point for me. I feel that I have the essentials to continue my own education and professional advancement."
"…one of the most valuable learning experiences that I have participated in since graduating from my Masters degree program."
"…terrific and far exceeded my expectations."
"I have a new found enthusiasm and appreciation for education because of the master educators I have been exposed to at the WBGI."
"When I applied for this course last fall I never dreamed it could have been this good!"
"This has been an amazing experience! Challenging and demanding but incredibly rewarding."
"I learned far far more than I ever dreamed possible."
Genetics CAN be learned in an online format. I wondered about that but am pleased to report that with the creativity and warmth of the WBGI faculty, this was entirely possible and enjoyable.
I came in with admittedly little knowledge of genetics, and left with an understanding of important basic concepts, experience in applying the concepts, and a multitude of ideas for sharing the knowledge with the nurses of tomorrow.
I've had genetics courses in graduate school and have done much reading on cancer genetics since entering the field 20+ years ago. However, this course provided me with in-depth understanding of genetics. In addition to the biological concepts/content, the modules addressed the very important ethical/moral/legal and psychosocial issues paramount to a thorough understanding and appreciation of genetics.
Like everyone else, I learned far more from this course than I thought possible. I have been very impressed with how well the web-based format works and how it has exposed us to the web resources available.
I was skeptical that one could really learn on-line and now I've become a believer… Unlike attending a CEU conference, one cannot be a passive learner with this type of format.
In all my doctoral education, I would have to say this course has had the most impact
For a Blackboard neophyte, like me, the directions were clear and the willingness to give assistance encouraging.

Accreditation

Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center (OH-046/9-1-09) is an approved provider of continuing nursing education by the Ohio Nurses Association (OBN-001-91), an accredited approver by the American Nurses Credentialing Center's Commission on Accreditation.