Free-to-Use eLearning Modules

Apart from training and certifying individual EC members, the Dutch Central Committee on Research involving Human Subjects (CCMO) recently added training of investigators to its repertoire.

On December 3, 2012, at the Academic Medical Center Amsterdam, Prof. dr. Marcel Levi opened the eLearning website Onderzoekswijs.nl. "Clinical Research in our country is still standing strong, as compared to other EU countries. The number of trials taking place in the Netherlands this year is even a bit higher as compared to last year," Levi said. Of all trials performed in the Netherlands, more than 40% are categorized as "investigator-initiated," a number which has remained quite stable over the last few years.

The free-to-use modules, that were designed on the basis of frequently asked questions from the field, offer no examination. However, after the instructions, a user may test his/her knowledge gained by answering a few questions, with direct feedback. Currently six themes are covered:

• Do I need to submit my research trial?

• Submitting a trial.

• Multi-center trial.

• Performing a trial.

• SAEs and SUSARs.

• Other applicable laws and regulations.

Four of the six start off with a video fragment. More modules may be added. In principle, the eLearning is intended for those interested/involved in investigator-initiated trials. However, any investigator may benefit from its contents.

CCMO anticipates the eLearning modules will soon be used in the compulsory training by all eight Dutch University Medical Centers.

The website's slogan is "Test and Increase Your Knowledge" with the language used in the eLearning modules being Dutch. Further information can be obtained from ccmo@ccmo.nl.

—Edgar Smeets