Abstract - We have built a Web-based database-driven case simulation platform. The process of generating cases has gone through several iterations - from no template during the development phases, to a simple Word template, to finally, an online remote authoring tool. Our case generation has gone from highly variable to highly structured, predictable and scalable.

The editorial processes you choose and the extent of multi-media incorporation affect the case production process dramatically. The scalability of case generation will be determined by both the complexity of the cases (and therefore the authoring of cases) and by the ease of editing and integration of multi-media. Authoring tools must be intuitive and make the case generation process as simple as filling in the blanks. How those blanks are provided to authors is critical.

Benefit to participants - "Best practice" does not necessarily have one gold standard and may vary depending upon local circumstances - what works for one may fail for others. I'd like to share my experiences and stimulate others to share their disasters and successes in generating case-based learning materials.

Gregory Thompson, M.D.
Formerly Director of CME, Medschool.com
Currently VP of Medical IT, Global e-Medicine
1352 Logan Ave., Salt Lake City, UT 84105
Phone: 801-485-9937
Mobile: 310-612-2200
e-mail: thompsonga@hotmail.com