Abstract:

Introduction
Mental health problems are growing all over Europe. New learning methods are needed for continuing training to ensure that staff can adapt their skills according to clients’ needs. e-Learning is increasing nationally and internationally with different methodologies. However, there is not too much information available of the real-life practical questions when e-Learning courses will be developed for international purposes.

Methods
EU-funded ePsychNurse.Net –course for vocational continuing training was developed to support nurses’ skills to manage distressed and disturbed patients in psychiatric institutions (2006-2008). Project was carried out in Finland, Ireland, England, Italy, Portugal and Lithuania with 15 partners and 5 languages. The course was evaluated in each country using face validity method (N=70) by end-users, i.e. nurses and teachers. Face validity included questions related to platform, curriculum, course structure, materials, and global evaluation.

Results
Face validity showed ePsychNurse.Net –course platform was easy to navigate, however more training is needed for using technology. Curriculum met the goals of the course but users need more support from teachers. Course materials and teaching methods were clear and easy to use. Nurses thought that this course has potential to change practise. For nurses perceptions the overall course satisfaction were good. However, nurses felt that course could be even more interactive using technology.

Conclusions
To ensure that e-Learning methods will support lifelong learning, technology skills, learning support and interactive elements in continuing training must be recognized. Practical questions such as these ones, should be discussed when developing e-learning in continuing training. In addition, there is clear need for national and international guidelines for tutorials for using e-Learning.

Keywords:

E-Learning, Continuing training, Mental health.