CHSS eLearning Migration

A suite of e-Learning training resources based on NHS Education for Scotland’s Stroke Core Competencies was developed by the University of Edinburgh and Chest Heart and Stroke Scotland (CHSS) in 2007, followed by a series of Heart Education Awareness e-Learning modules. These collaborative projects were funded by the Scottish Government. The online training modules have been well used by health and social care professionals across the UK and beyond, with over 14,000 certificates having been issued in the four years to January 2018. Completion of the stroke and cardiac care modules is mandatory for stroke nurses in Scotland and use of the modules continues to increase despite modest promotion and marketing activities.

The Stroke Training and Awareness Resources (STARs), Heart Education Awareness Resource and Training through E-learning Resources (HEARTe) are currently hosted, managed and maintained by the University of Edinburgh. Content is reviewed regularly by a large, diverse group of subject area experts working closely with the CHSS team, and any content updates are then made by the University of Edinburgh team.

These websites were anticipated to have a lifespan of up to five years, and many of the underpinning technologies such as classic asp and Flash are now either beyond or approaching end of life. Many browsers no longer support Flash, and although there are text alternatives for interactive Flash objects, these do not provide an optimal user experience. The technology must now be upgraded to ensure the sites continue to function and reduce the risks associated with the older technologies.

The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) came into force in May 2018, bringing with it new guidance and obligations for data controllers and data processors in relation to the holding, processing and retention of personal data. There is currently no written contract or service level agreement between CHSS and the University of Edinburgh in relation to the e-Learning platforms and data, and this project provides an opportunity to provide clarity around responsibilities, obligations and payments.

This project will oversee the replacement and migration of STARs and HEARTe e-learning resources to a new platform that will enable CHSS to manage content updates, hosting, support and management of the e-Learning content and associated data.

The project is funded by Scottish Government, and the budget is held by CHSS. A regular payment schedule has been agreed.