Issue link: https://www.massageandbodyworkdigital.com/i/81195
ESSENTIAL SKILLS that after participating in an in-person hands-on workshop, the skills of an in-person classroom student were no different than the students who took my DVD or webinar courses. In fact, in some cases, students who took the DVD or webinar courses had superior skills to those who took in-person courses because the students had plenty of time to practice and hone their skills by watching me perform the technique in a webinar, close-up and repeatedly, before they came in for the lesson. Some massage schools offer online courses where, for several months, the students have contact online followed by on-site learning. During the online learning portion of their program, the student completes the written hours by solving problems, learning SOAP note protocols, asking questions, and so on. This can be achieved through the use of online blackboards, education websites, or even Facebook for the class participants to ask questions and receive answers. For advanced practitioners, online learning provides a convenient and inexpensive way to learn and obtain continuing education hours for maintenance of certification and licensing. ABMP's Online Education Center offers online seminars taught by some of the most recognized names in the field. Participate in live webinars at ABMP. com, where you can also view dozens of archived sessions. Webinars are free to members; CE credit is also available. OH, THE POSSIBILITIES There are various ways that people use technology to achieve educational goals. Some people purchase a DVD after taking a workshop so they can continue to practice what they learned in the class. Others take a series of webinars and utilize video clips, or purchase books, manuals, and DVDs to reinforce and continue their learning. Due to the increasing success of such methods, I have no doubt even more new technologies will arise to enhance online learning. Ben E. Benjamin, PhD, holds a doctorate in education and sports medicine, and is founder of the Muscular Therapy Institute. Benjamin has been in private practice for more than 45 years and has taught extensively across the country on topics including orthopedic massage, Active Isolated Stretching and Strengthening, and ethics. He is the author of Listen to Your Pain (Penguin, 2007), Are You Tense? (Pantheon, 1978), and Exercise Without Injury (MTI, 1979), and coauthor of The Ethics of Touch (Sohnen- Moe Associates, 2003). Presently, he is offering continuing education for massage therapists around the world via webinars. He can be contacted at ben@benbenjamin.com. For advanced practitioners, online learning provides a convenient and inexpensive way to learn and obtain continuing education hours for maintenance of certification and licensing. Celebrate ABMP's 25th anniversary and you may win a refund on your membership. ABMP.com. 113