Distance education in the training of professionals for the Unified Health System: Meta-study

Abstract

This study aimed to characterize theoretical and pedagogical concepts in distance education in the training/qualification of employees of the Unified Health System and to identify courses in distance education, supported in this context. The systematic search involved qualitative studies using the terms ‘distance education' and ‘health.' In all, 21 studies were selected to compose the meta-study, which consisted of three stages: Metatheory, metamethods, and meta-analysis. Four categories were identified in the metatheory: Constructivism; the pedagogy of Paulo Freire; continuing education in health; conceptions belonging specifically to distance education. The metamethods step found 11 experience reports; two case studies; three involved content analysis; one involved action research; and the another, discourse analysis. Marking results were found in the meta-analysis: Formation of learning communities; strengthening of management spaces; formation of network for projects in continuing education. The discussions emphasized strengthening the Unified Health System, the protagonism of the subjects, and the formation of care networks. It was noted that the study focuses on the more conceptual and theoretical aspects than on the methodological ones. Concepts supported in Constructivism, in continuing education in health, and in a theoretical framework of distance education itself were evident. In the studies, distance education was considered essential for training/qualifying professionals in the Unified Health System.

Keywords
distance education; Unified Health System; workers