Exploring the Current Use of Educational Technologies in the Oncology Domain Across Europe: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Aug 29, 2025·
Jana Steinbacher
,
Taibe Kulaksiz
Marco Kalz
Marco Kalz
· 1 min read
Abstract
Considering the increasing relevance of digital education in cancer training, this study explores the current use of educational technologies in oncology across Europe. A cross-sectional study was conducted using convenience sampling to gather responses from learners and educators across Europe. Data was collected online via Lime Survey. Results indicate that both groups are most familiar with synchronous and blended learning, with less experience in asynchronous and hybrid formats. Live lectures were the most used tool, while virtual reality and simulations were less used. Regional differences reveal that Northern Europe prefers audio-based tools and e-books, while Central Europe demonstrates higher familiarity with asynchronous learning and interactive tools. Southern Europe has less experience with various modalities and tools. Professionally, cancer nurses reported more experience with asynchronous learning and learning management systems, while clinical oncologists demonstrated limited familiarity with various tools, particularly emerging technologies. For multi-disciplinary oncology training to succeed, practitioners need to align learning objectives with participants’ prior experiences and balance diverse target groups and implementation needs to address regional and professional disparities. Targeted efforts are needed to bridge gaps in digital infrastructure, accessibility, and institutional support. Explanatory studies are needed to confirm these findings.
Type
Publication
Journal of Cancer Education, 1-8. Springer
publications publications

Steinbacher, J., Kulaksız, T., & Kalz, M. (2025). Exploring the Current Use of Educational Technologies in the Oncology Domain Across Europe: A Cross-Sectional Study. Journal of Cancer Education, 1-8. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13187-025-02703-1

TEL Oncology Cancer Education Medical Education Cancer Care Professionals Systematic Review
Marco Kalz
Authors
Marco Kalz
Professor of Educational Technology

I am a researcher in educational technology whose work explores how digital technologies reshape learning, teaching, and educational institutions. My research combines educational technology, learning sciences, feedback research, and critical perspectives on digital transformation.Current areas of interest include peer feedback and feedback literacy, open and networked learning, AI and misinformation in education, digital learning ecologies, and the societal implications of data-driven and platform-based education. Methodologically, my work spans empirical learning research, psychometric scale development, design-oriented research, and conceptual analyses of digital transformation in education.

I am working as a full professor of educational technology and Chief Information/Chief Digital Officer (CIO/CDO) at the Heidelberg University of Education. I serve as associate editor of the International Journal of Artificial Intelligence in Education and editorial board member of the Journal of Computing in Higher Education. I am a senior-fellow of the Interuniversity Center for Educational Sciences (ICO) and the Dutch research school on information and knowledge systems (SIKS). I work as director of the study program E-Learning and Media Education and director of the Heidelberg Centre for Digital Transformation in Education. Over the years I could secure approx. 4 Mio EUR of research funding for my institutions from competitive projects with a total budget of 36 Mio EUR. I have been an invited keynote speaker on more than 60 conferences and events. Besides European projects I am regularly involved in educational innovation and consulting projects with partners inside and outside of my institutions including clients like the International Labour Organisation, United Nations Environment Program, the European Commission, UNESCO, OECD or other international and national organizations.