ABSTRACT
In this chapter Heller looks at the potential contribution of online learning to the continuing professional development of health care professionals in emerging economies. The solution described offers postgraduate-level, accredited education delivered in a scalable and cost-effective manner by employing open educational resources linked to a social enterprise model and volunteer practitioner tutors. Despite adopting a design that places a strong emphasis on learner control and collaborative knowledge creation, experience has shown that many students at this level expect to be taught, want to hear expert advice rather than that of their peers and value a direct relationship with a trusted mentor. The need for recognised accreditation also created conflict with the quality assurance processes common in the traditional awarding bodies for higher education. Despite these challenges the programme is making a difference on the ground, and Heller rounds out the chapter with a discussion of potential future developments to increase the breadth of collaboration and knowledge creation.
