Background: AHWs and EPs have limited knowledge about chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) management.

Aim: Evaluate an online education program, co-designed with AHWs and EPs to increase COPD knowledge and management.

Methods: AHWs and EPs from 4 Australian Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services were recruited to attend 7 online education sessions using 8 Ways of Aboriginal learning and to co-design education ?yarning? resources for Aboriginal people with COPD. Education topics included management of COPD, exercise, breathlessness, anxiety, nutrition, and inhaler use. After each session, AHWs with EPs co-designed culturally safe education ?yarning? resources and practiced delivering each topic using role play. AHWs and EPs completed an online survey (5-point Likert scale) and a semi-structured interview about their experience of online education.

Results: Of the 12 AHWs and EPs, 11 completed the survey and interview (7 AHWs, 4 EPs (non-Aboriginal)). Most (90%) strongly agreed/agreed the sessions increased their COPD knowledge and skills. All (100%) felt their opinions and cultural perspectives were valued and included. Most (91%) reported co-designing and rehearsing their yarning scripts improved their understanding of COPD. Interview themes related to: Aboriginal lung health landscape; participating in online learning; structuring the education sessions; co-designing with the facilitators.

Conclusion: Online education using co-design and 8 Ways of Aboriginal learning was rated highly by AHWs and EPs for improving COPD knowledge, valuing Aboriginal cultural perspectives and supporting the adaptation of resources for Aboriginal people with COPD.