Collaborative learning scenarios utilising DVD and hybrid digital media technologies for psychiatric assessment and evaluation strategies

The problems associated with the introduction of new assessment procedures in the determination of child and adolescent psychiatric disorder, are not solely confined to the nature or appropriateness of the subject matter, but can stem significantly from logistical and time constraints endemic in professional healthcare practice. The use of DVD media for group training sessions with the emphasis on a minimal technological and end user knowledge requirement, is seen as key to maximising structured assessment and adoption of new psychiatric diagnostic procedures, especially where the subject matter requires the use of high quality video and audio materials. However, in order to effectively repurpose the same training materials for use as individual learning, the use of hybrid optical and online/ offline digital media structures can be employed, and thus deliver training and collaborative learning in a profession which suffers from increasing workloads.