E-Cog: An online training platform for cognitive health interventions based on the ADDIE model

Background Online learning is an accessible and cost-effective solution to deliver training in healthcare. In-person training has long supported mental health practitioners in delivering cognitive health interventions, however for many underserved populations, significant barriers to accessing standardized, evidence-based training for such treatments remain. The E-Cog platform aims to bridge this implementation gap, delivering accessible and engaging remote training that maintains the quality of in-person training. Objectives Describe the design, development, and implementation of E-Cog, an innovative online training platform for two cognitive health interventions, within the context of a Canadian multisite implementation trial for individuals diagnosed with psychosis. Additionally, examine the feasibility and acceptability of the ADDIE educational framework for e-learning development. Methods Following the ADDIE model's five phases (analysis, design, development, implementation, and evaluation), we developed our training platform and its curriculum of two cognitive health online certifications: Action-Based Cognitive Remediation and Metacognitive Training. This protocol describes the first four phases of our work and reports on the feasibility and acceptability of the ADDIE model. Conclusions E-Cog has been implemented to deliver remote, asynchronous training that maintains in-person quality standards and shows potential for cost-effectiveness. Successful uptake of mental health practitioners ( n = 28) was observed during the first two years of implementation. ADDIE was perceived as feasible and acceptable as a framework for e-learning content, depending on flexibility to adapt its structure to research challenges and constraints. Next steps include a qualitative assessment of E-Cog's usability and impact on intervention delivery.