DoEpi: Computer-Assisted Instruction in Epidemiology and Computing and a Framework for Creating New Exercises

DoEpi is a series of computer exercises and a framework for making new exercises based on the Epi Info™ programs for epidemiologic computing. The system contains three outbreak investigations, a research survey, four exercises in advanced Epi Info programming, and four exercises in public health surveillance. The exercises are available via the Internet (www.cdc.gov, under “Publications, Products, and Software”) with provision for CME and CEU credit from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. They can serve as a useful adjunct to lectures and textbooks in teaching epidemiology or epidemiologic computing. A new DoEpi exercise with hypertext, low-resolution photographs, questions, answers, and an examination can be constructed in hours rather than weeks or months using an Exercise Development “wizard” provided as part of the instructor’s module. Epi Info™ exercises with data files and customized programs require more work to construct but can be added by those with the necessary skills. DoEpi exercises can be used in a variety of ways for different curricula and students of different background levels, including those with English as a second language. Translation of DoEpi exercises into other languages is facilitated by the instructor’s module, and construction of new exercises with locally suitable materials is encouraged. DoEpi is based on DOS programs to allow the widest use. The format lends itself to conversion to hypertext programs in the Microsoft Windows and Internet formats at a future date.