Free online dermatology course for medical trainees in Ethiopia: A pilot study

BACKGROUND: The effectiveness of virtual dermatology curricula in developing countries remains unclear despite an urgent need due to the pandemic and other factors. OBJECTIVE: To compare a virtual dermatology curriculum deployed in Gondar, Ethiopia with a traditional in-person course. METHODS: We developed a free, on-line dermatology course. 104 trainees from the University of Gondar, Ethiopia, completed the course. Pre- and post-course surveys measuring self-reported proficiency were administered. End-of-Course surveys were distributed to elicit feedback on the course. Performance on final examinations was compared to a historical control group, which did not participate in the course but received standard in-person training. RESULTS: Compared to historical controls (n = 236), the pilot cohort (n = 104) averaged over 4 points higher on the final exam (P < .0001). Most participants were satisfied with all aspects of the on-line course and desire at least a component of virtual learning in the future. LIMITATIONS: This pilot study was performed at a single institution, and the participants were not randomized. Further studies in demographically diverse cohorts are needed to validate the results. CONCLUSION: This dermatology curriculum is a free, innovative platform that can be adapted for dermatology trainees in resource-limited settings.