DIGIT course: Current Trends in eHealth Perspectives
The definition of eHealth is constantly evolving, and this course aims to introduce students to the vast area of eHealth and the research frontier of the field.
We will invite critical reflection on the impact of eHealth on the future of healthcare, on society and on the users of eHealth – both health care workers and end-users.
eHealth is multidisciplinary in nature and aims to equip the global audience of health clinicians, students, managers, administrators, and researchers to reflect on the overall impact of eHealth on the integration of care.
Current Trends in eHealth Perspectives
When: 17.-18. March, 21.-22. April and 20. May (digital attendance in May)
Where: University of South-Eastern Norway (USN), Campus Drammen
Registration deadline: 2. February, 2026
Language: Norwegian/English
Read more and apply here: https://www.usn.no/english/research/postgraduate-studies-phd/our-phd-programmes/person-health-and-society/courses/phd-course-current-trends-in-ehealth-perspectives
Credits: 5 ECTS
Number of participants: 15
Photo: usn.no
Course content
The demographic prospects, increasing inequalities, and rising cost in the health care and welfare system represent challenges that require interdisciplinary research and innovation. Increased use of e-health will contribute to meet these challenges. At the same time, this is a novel area that requires new knowledge and new knowledge combinations as well as a critical research approach.
The definition of eHealth is constantly evolving, and this course aims to introduce students to the vast area of eHealth and the research frontier of the field. We will invite critical reflection on the impact of eHealth on the future of healthcare, on society and on the users of eHealth – both health care workers and end-users. eHealth is multidisciplinary in nature and aims to equip the global audience of health clinicians, students, managers, administrators, and researchers to reflect on the overall impact of eHealth on the integration of care.
Admission to the course
This DIGIT course is part of the PhD programme in Person, Health and Society at USN. This PhD course is open to PhD candidates from any institution. Enrollment in a PhD programme is required for participation. In the event of high demand, priority will be given first to participants in DIGIT, then to the PhD program at USN and other applicants.
For ph.d. candidates at USN: Register in Studentweb.
For other applicants: Link to application form for the spring will be published here (external link, USN.no):
Learning outcome
Knowledge
have in-depth knowledge and critical understanding of scientific excellence in the multidisciplinary field of eHealth, in which the various participating disciplines have different research orientations
have in-depth knowledge and critical understanding of ontological assumptions, and epistemological preferences within the field of eHealth
have in-depth knowledge and critical understanding of ethical, data security and social challenges raised by widespread use of eHealth technology
have in-depth knowledge and critical understanding of how emerging technological trends impact society, organizations and individuals
Skills
can critically reflect on current trends and innovative approaches in using eHealth in organizations
can navigate the landscape of eHealth as part of the health and welfare sector and benefit from its diversity
Can provide and apply constructive feedback on one’s own and others work to enhance/strengthen further development/work
General competence:
can describe and explain underlying assumptions made in studying eHealth.
can apply knowledge and skills in new areas of eHealth.
can communicate eHealth topics, analyses and conclusions to both specialists and general audiences.
can contribute to new trends and innovative ideas within the field of eHealth.
Work Requirements
The candidates are required to submit a paper draft presenting an analysis of research literature, theoretical perspective, and/or empirical evidence on a specific topic within the field of eHealth, preferably addressing issues in their PhD project. This is followed by a fellow student evaluation. The coursework requirements must be completed before students can submit the written home exam.
Financial support
DIGIT will cover travel and accommodation for DIGIT members who are attending the course - please contact the DIGIT coordinator for more information.
Teachers
Etty R. Nilsen is a professor of Health and Technology at USN, where she also serves as research director at the USN Centre Health and Technology. Her research focuses on management and technology implementation in healthcare. She teaches healthcare management, knowledge management, organizational learning, and change management.
Niels Christian Mossfeldt Nickelsen is a full professor of Health and Technology at USN. He is an authorized clinical psychologist educated at Copenhagen University. He has a PhD in organization studies from Copenhagen Business School. His research focuses on the care implications of technological arrangements that aim to streamline professional work and provide quality of care.