Cloud-Based Social Learning Can Save Lives
By
Beverly Macy
I talk and write about the power of social media all the time. Here’s an example where social learning is unlocking the power to actually save lives.
As we enter the fourth quarter of 2013, I am encouraged by many of the trends we’re seeing in social business, social learning and the now ubiquitous cloud. One sector taking full advantage of this new convergence is the medical sector—particularly around education delivery systems that can help save children’s lives.
I was shocked to learn that 6.6 million children under the age of 5 die each year from preventable causes. This is partly because of the shortage of medical workers worldwide, but it’s also due to the fact that medical knowledge is kept behind the walls of medical institutions and schools.What’s changing now is the proliferation of cloud-based social learning tools that are streamlining training procedures and opening doors to customized learning options.
I just learned about a free and open program that could absolutely change the world, and it’s inspired by Dr. Jeffrey Burns, Chief of Critical Care Medicine at Boston Children’s Hospital (BCH). Dr. Burns has pioneered a new program just announced by BCH. This cloud-based social learning called OPENPediatrics, is in partnership with IBM and connects physicians and nurses around the globe in the sharing of best practices in the care of critically ill children—AT NO COST to clinicians.
What’s really cool about OPENPediatrics is that the social network will connect experts globally to share latest findings, best practices and patient care examples. This is the power of social media used for social good. Well done!
It’s nice to know that good things are happening in our world today and that the power of social media continues to spark vision and practical application that makes a difference.
The following video will bring tears and then tears of joy to your eyes:
Beverly Macy is the co-author of The Power of Real-Time Social Media Marketing. She also teaches Executive Global Marketing and Branding and Social Media Marketing for the UCLA Extension. Email at beverlymacy@gmail.com.
This article originally appeared on The Huffington Post
