Plugging in: Utilizing information technology in health science education

Modern health care education requires effective testing of students, ability to efficiently conduct program evaluation, and availability of specialized technical personnel to foster increased utilization of technology. These activities are best accomplished through an integrated information technology (IT) plan. The transition from a paper-and-pencil system to a technology-driven system is a complex endeavor. However, this must be accomplished for an academic unit to provide needed services to students and faculty alike. A pilot project was developed and implemented to adapt existing technology for use in student testing, collection and analysis of student feedback and course evaluation data, creation of a department-specific “IT advisor,” and assessment/promotion of additional facility development. The program was implemented and evaluated over a 12-month period. The overwhelming success of the program was reflected in financial, creative, and internal process improvements. These data generated substantial support for expanded and permanent program implementation within the health science division.