The purpose of this program is to provide introductory through advanced information on alcoholism for a diverse population of professionals who require training in this area. The project's design is both interdisciplinary and interactive, providing information on the pharmacology, pathophysiology, social, behavioral, and public health aspects of this disease. As part of its utilization, the CD-ROM is coupled to a perpetually maintained Web site providing additional resource material and information on treatment options within the state. It is expected that the completed training program will continue to serve as a valuable resource for health care and other professionals.

To view how the program works, click here.

The program begins with the introduction of a type of alcoholic patient through a video vignette. This device serves to draw the program user into a specific life situation. When completed, the individual using the program selects one of the buttons on the left panel of the screen. The disciplinary topic buttons are:

• Pathophysiology
• Pharmacology
• Epidemiology
• Behavior (physical observations)
• Interview approaches
• Important history issues
• Intervention approaches
• Anticipated physical findings
• Treatment options

Triggering one of these buttons will transfer the user to a screen with several bulleted statements that denote key content items in that realm, the essential points that the user should know. For each of these bulleted items, there is a second tier of text and graphic material in a subsequent screen that is a more detailed coverage of the subject. Embedded within this material will be highlighted text, graphics, and/or buttons which, when triggered, would transport the user to a third tier of multi and/or interdisciplinary information and additional resources to further amplify the particular subject material.

To purchase Understanding the Alcoholic online, click here.
To view how the program works, click here.