Challenge
The Caribbean region faces growing health risks from climate change, yet there was a gap in accessible, audience-tailored education to equip both health professionals and the general public with the knowledge needed to understand and respond to these risks. Existing materials were not sufficiently contextualized, and dual-audience delivery (technical/professional versus public-facing) required distinct pedagogical approaches, interactivity, and clear learning pathways. We needed to rapidly develop high-quality, culturally relevant online self-learning courses with assessments and interactive features, integrating expert and community feedback while ensuring platform compatibility. At the same time, the courses had to remain concise so that busy health professionals could complete them alongside their existing responsibilities.
Solution
Designed, developed, and finalized two online courses: Climate Change and Health for Health Professionals and Climate Change and Health for the General Public, which have been launched on PAHO’s Virtual Campus for Public Health (VCPH). Work included course structuring, focus group consultation with country offices, expert review, syllabi and video lecture development, microlearning and interactive lessons, branching logic scenarios for professionals, comprehensive assessment banks with answer explanations, and optimization of navigation and user experience. All materials underwent a three-tier quality assurance process and received PAHO approval.
Impact:
Both Climate Change and Health courses are live on PAHO’s VCPH, providing accessible, high-quality, and Caribbean-specific learning on the health impacts of climate change. Since launch, course participation has been steadily growing, expanding the reach of climate and health education across the region. Health professionals can strengthen their ability to prevent and respond to climate-related health risks without leaving their posts, while the general public gains clear, actionable knowledge to protect themselves and their communities. Interactive microlearning, branching scenarios, and integrated assessments enhance engagement and knowledge retention, supporting greater regional climate resilience and health literacy.