Sheffield University has recently introduced a new Health Informatics Masters degree by distance learning. This paper documents the initial experiences of setting up, managing and delivering this course. The three parts of the paper cover motivation and background, design and content, and the issues, observations and problems relating to the course respectively. The latter relate to the logistics of delivery and how best to utilize the features of WebCT, and also how to meet the aspirations of students from a wide range of backgrounds.
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