Development of the programme Mental Disorders in Primary Care as Internet-based distance education in South Africa

Setting This innovative educational programme was developed in the South Af rican context for general practitioners (GPs). Aim This short report describes the process of designing an Internet-based distance education programme 'Mental Disorders in Primary Care'. Learning methods The article discusses relevant educational principles and then describes four stages in the instr uctional design process: design, development, evaluation and revision. Conclusion The design and development of an Internet-based distance educati on programme for GPs in South Africa was a potent learning experience for m e as an academic family physician with no prior experience in this area. I hope that this short report will assist other people and contribute to an o ngoing dialogue on this topic.