Trainees Online
Author’s Guide
Trainees Online Author’s Guide 2013
Getting Started
The aim of this document is to guide you on the structure and content of your
module for Trainees Online.
A module is the term we use for the e-learning course you have been
commissioned to write to prepare trainees for the membership exam. Each
module should last one hour.
This is an exciting new service for trainees, we encourage you to suggest and
develop your own ideas while following the structure below.
Module Structure
Firstly, make sure you have been sent the Trainees Online Content Template.
You will need this to write your module in.
You will probably want to write the main content of your module before writing
some of the items in the introduction, though writing your learning outcomes is
always a useful start.
The module should follow a general structure of:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Module introduction
Exam curriculum/Learning outcomes
About the author(s)
Module contents
Split your module ideas into sections. Most modules have 4-5 sections.
Each section has approx 10-12 pages but some could have fewer, some
more. As a guide, each page should have up to a maximum of 100 words.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Section heading
Section introduction
Section subheadings
Activities and multimedia
Section quiz
Section summary
The module ends with:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Module summary
References
Further reading / useful websites (if applicable)
Acknowledgements (if applicable)
Take-home notes
Trainees Online Author’s Guide 2013
Module Content
In addition to text, modules can contain the following:





Audio and visual material, (usually to a maximum of 2 minutes).
Diagrams, diagrams, tables and graphs (seek copyright where necessary).
Images - we are able to source images if necessary.
Interactive activities – these will be similar to those used in CPD Online,
eg. drag and drop activities, roll-over diagrams. This content is developed
in-house.
Multiple choice questions, true and false questions and reflective
questions.
Recommended Reading
 Each module should list 1-3 recommended texts for reading. The trainees
will need to read these alongside the module content to have the
knowledge they need to pass the exam. The recommended reading will
not be an entire book but relevant pages in a text.
 Quizzes will test learners’ knowledge of both the module and the
recommended reading.
Copyright
 Any material eg. images, diagrams you use that are taken from another
publication/website will need copyright permission.
 The Trainees Online Editorial Assistant will have sent you a template
copyright letter that you can adapt and send to any copyright holders.
 Please contact the team if you have any queries about copyright
procedures.
Writing Style
 Remember you are writing for an online audience.
 Write short, concise sentences, keep paragraphs short.
 Add sub-headings regularly.
 Use lists and bullet points if appropriate.
 Provide case histories / vignettes where appropriate.
 Include references to add credibility and links to websites, but keep
relevant and minimal.
Trainees Online Author’s Guide 2013
References
 Compile your list of references which you have cited throughout the
module.
 Cite author and date in the text itself. Please follow style in a recent
Advance in Psychiatric Treatment journal. e.g. (Jones et al 2003)
 In the references list, we also use the style as used in the APT.
 Please keep to a maximum of 25-30 references. If you have more than
this, include them in the further reading if necessary.
 References must be cited in the complete and correct format before final
submission. If in doubt about style, please consult the content editor.
Take Home Notes
 These are compiled for learners to print out as a useful revision aid for
your module.
 Aim for 1-2 pages (A4) maximum – they can be a repeat of the module
summary, key facts and references/recommended reading so no further
writing is required. However you may wish to include particular
tables/diagrams or other useful detail contained elsewhere in the module
Consent and confidentiality
 Please note that any case studies you use must be fictional, and
names/identifying features of real patients must not be used.
 We can record case studies using actors, but if you feel that it would be
beneficial to interview patients then please speak to the Trainees Online
Content Editor before proceeding, as we will need to obtain written
consent.
Questions
Do remember to use the module template when you write your module. Please
don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions.
Good Luck!
Rosie Lynch
rlynch@rcpsych.ac.uk
Trainees Online Content Editor
Victoria Walker
vwalker@rcpych.ac.uk
Trainees Online Editorial Assistant