An Open Access e-Learning Strategy for Infectious Disease Epidemiology in Latin America: The Epi Training Kit Pilot Study

Abstract Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has revealed significant gaps in outbreak response and data analysis training, particularly in low- and middle-income regions. In Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC), challenges such as limited resources, language barriers, and gender disparities hinder the adoption of data science tools in public health, highlighting the need for accessible, culturally relevant public health training. Methods: To address these gaps, we developed the Epi Training Kit (EpiTKit), an open-access, Spanish-language online training strategy delivered as a Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) with context-specific resources and a gender perspective. This descriptive study presents the findings from the 2023 pilot, which involved 223 participants from 13 LAC countries. Mixed methods were used, alongside descriptive statistics and thematic content analysis, to assess course content, learning objectives, educational resources, platform experience, and the integration of regional and gender perspectives. Results: The MOOC earned a mean rating of 4.6/5 (n=90). Over 95% of participants acknowledged that the course met expectations with clear, relevant content (n=630), while most emphasized its value for Latin America, quality education, and gender equity. Additionally, 89% found it relevant for professional development, 92% valued its regional focus, and nearly 90% recognized its promotion of gender equity (n=105). Thematic analysis highlighted key themes related to content quality, learning methodology, peer collaboration, and the integration of regional and gender perspectives. Conclusions: The Epi Training Kit highlights the potential of regionally tailored online learning to address public health challenges, reduce educational gaps, promote gender equity, and strengthen data science capacities. The pilot implementation showed that flexible and inclusive e-learning strategies can engage diverse professionals across Latin America and the Caribbean, fostering skill development and expanding access for underrepresented groups. These findings underscore the value of digital education initiatives in advancing equity, scalability, and preparedness in public health training.