Internet-based teaching and learning in ophthalmology

The transmission of clinical knowledge occurs traditionally through lectures, theoretical and practical courses, bed-side teaching as well as case-oriented teaching in small groups. The realisation is, however often very laborious and problematical because of low resources. For these reasons the development of computer-based, and in particular internet-based tutorials have increased dramatically in recent years. Furthermore,the transmission of knowledge by means of internet-based tutorials offers several advantages. The content can be quickly updated and multimedia presentations are possible. The use of these sources is normally independent of time and location. The possibilities of internet-based teaching and learning are on-line lectures, case simulations and online quizzes. At present the number of ophthalmological applications on the internet is still restricted. Internet-based multimedial tutorials represent a meaningful supplement to traditional forms of teaching. Especially in ophthalmology, a visual presentation of details can be performed in an easier way via multimedial tools and the training is followed without causing stress for the patients.