Knowledge sharing for pediatric pain management via a Web 2.0 framework.

The experiential knowledge of pediatric health practitioners encompasses vital insights into the clinical efficacy of diagnostic and therapeutic methods for pediatric pain management. Yet, this knowledge is not readily disseminated to other practitioners and translated into practice guidelines. We argue that a peer-to-peer knowledge sharing mechanism can serve as a key change agent to improve the attitudes, beliefs and methods for pediatric pain management. We are using collaborative technologies, in the realm of Web 2.0, to develop a web-based knowledge sharing medium for fostering a community of pediatric pain practitioners that engages in collaborative learning and problem solving. We present the design and use of a web portal featuring a discussion forum to facilitate experiential knowledge sharing based on our LINKS knowledge sharing model.