Background and Requirements of Web Based Learning The evolution of education, particularly in nursing, has witnessed significant changes due to advancements in technology. In the mid-20th century, traditional learning, where students physically attended classes, was the norm. However, by the 1990s and 2000s, many students, especially those returning for continuing education or higher degrees, needed more flexible learning options due to professional and personal commitments. This shift gave rise to web-based learning, which allows learners to access education remotely.
Web-based education offers flexibility and the opportunity to accommodate students who may not be able to attend classes on campus. This model also enables continuous learning through updates in knowledge, as professions like nursing demand constant skill refreshment due to rapid advancements in the medical field.
What is a Traditional Course?
A traditional course, often referred to as an on-campus course, involves students attending classes physically in a classroom setting. They interact with instructors face-to-face, purchase textbooks from a university bookstore, and receive printed handouts in class. Student-faculty interaction is direct, typically involving discussions, feedback, and scheduled meetings. Access to on-campus libraries and study materials further supports learning.
In contrast, a correspondence course involves remote learning without on-campus requirements. Students receive study materials and exams by mail, and communication with instructors, if any, is minimal. A web-supported course blends traditional learning with online resources, providing students with lecture notes, assignments, and discussion boards on the internet while still attending physical classes.
Physical Requirements of Web-Based Learning Courses in Nursing Education
Web-based courses require students to have access to the internet and a computer with sufficient technical specifications. This includes hardware like webcams and microphones for video conferencing and streaming educational materials. Textbooks and course materials can be purchased online, and assignments, exams, and feedback are handled electronically. These courses typically rely on email, discussion boards, chat rooms, and video conferencing to facilitate interaction between students and instructors.
In web-based courses, there is no physical campus attendance required, making it accessible to students globally. However, some institutions may offer blended learning courses, combining online education with occasional on-campus intensives. This model caters to students who prefer some level of face-to-face interaction but need the flexibility of distance learning.
Educational Payments and Resources for Web-Based Learning Courses in Nursing Education
Web-based courses require students to handle all aspects of their education online, including registration, tuition payments, and access to educational materials. Resources like textbooks can be ordered from university bookstores or online retailers such as Amazon or Barnes & Noble. The advantage is that students living far from the university have the same access to resources as those living nearby.
The cost of web-based education often includes technology fees for accessing online platforms. However, web-based courses offer significant flexibility, allowing students to balance their education with personal and professional responsibilities.
Advantages of Web-Based Learning in Nursing Education
- Flexibility: Students can access course materials and complete assignments at their own pace and from any location with internet access.
- Convenience: No need for travel, parking, or adhering to a fixed class schedule.
- Expanded Access: Web-based learning provides opportunities for individuals in remote areas or those with demanding schedules to pursue higher education and continuing professional development.
- Self-Paced Learning: Asynchronous courses allow students to take time to absorb material and revisit lectures or discussions as needed.
However, web-based learning requires self-discipline, basic computer literacy, and reliable internet access. Additionally, students may need to navigate the challenges of limited face-to-face interaction with peers and instructors.
Themes of Distance Learning in Nursing Education
Several themes shape the future of distance learning in nursing education:
- Collaboration: The internet fosters collaboration between students, teachers, and experts worldwide, making information sharing easier and more efficient.
- Connectivity: Platforms like discussion boards, email, and video conferencing allow students and instructors to remain connected, overcoming geographic and time zone barriers.
- Student-Centered Learning: Adult learning principles emphasize the student’s active role in the learning process, encouraging self-directed learning and critical thinking.
- Unbounded Learning: Online education removes geographical barriers, providing global access to information and allowing students to learn anywhere.
- Virtual Community: Creating a sense of community in an online environment is essential for student engagement and success.
- Exploration: Problem-based learning and other exploratory activities promote deeper understanding and integration of knowledge.
- Shared Knowledge: Online platforms enable students and professionals to contribute to and access vast knowledge networks, enriching the learning experience.
- Multi-Sensory Experience: Web-based learning utilizes multiple channels, including visuals, audio, and interactive elements, enhancing student engagement.
- Authenticity: Online education allows access to real-time information, making learning relevant to the student’s profession and field of study.
Expectations with Online Learning or Traditional Classes Connected to the Internet in Nursing Education
In the traditional classroom, learning is often passive, with students receiving information from an instructor. However, web-based learning transforms the student into an active participant, where the focus is on interactive engagement. The role of the teacher shifts from the deliverer of knowledge to a facilitator of learning, fostering discussions, exploration, and knowledge application.
For clinical skills in nursing, web-based learning often integrates video technology and simulations to teach and assess practical skills. Tools like webcams and video conferencing enable instructors to observe and evaluate students’ practical skills remotely.
Conclusion
Web-based learning has transformed nursing education by providing flexibility, accessibility, and the ability to tailor learning to individual needs. However, it also requires students and educators to adapt to new technologies and approaches to learning. As technology continues to evolve, web-based learning will likely become an integral part of nursing education, complementing traditional learning methods and providing diverse opportunities for students worldwide.