English: Providing effective research training to students early in their studies is critical for development of competency in evidence-based professional practice. Furthermore, we find that our students generally do not understand the critical nature of research as it relates to their training and clinical practice.

This project developed multimedia online modules to support the teaching of introductory research and evidence in health. The modules aim to address this need and provide for multi-campus teaching; greater accessibility for students any time and any level; blend with other subjects as required; provide a foundation for graduate entry students; and a framework for development of more advanced modules for final year students and clinicians on placement. We created the modules with a mix of text, video multimedia and multiple choice questions, both scholarly and humorous in style, to engage and motivate the students. Evaluation was carried out in 2013 with 1,700 students, and a peer review process was conducted by experts in the field of evidence-based practice between June and July 2013. Feedback has been very positive, with specific references to the usefulness and high quality of audio-visual recordings.

Development of the modules was an interdisciplinary collaboration between Allied Health (Podiatry, Speech and Social Work) and the Library (Learning and Research Services) across the Melbourne and Albury/Wodonga campuses. A successful bid for Innovation Project Funding (Design for Learning) enabled development of the modules.

Recorded for http://en.wikiversity.org/wiki/Blended_learning_and_online_teaching