Learning Objective #1: Describe the institute model for addressing the nursing faculty shortage

Learning Objective #2: Identify the core inititatives of the Institute for Nurse Educators

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The need for expanding the number of nurses prepared to teach is widely chronicled. The University of Maryland School of Nursing selected an institute model to lead change in addressing this critical problem. The Institute for Nurse Educators was launched in mid-2004. Core initiatives include: 1) “Teaching in Nursing and Health Professions” post-graduate certificate program (12 credits) offered in both face-to-face and on-line delivery; 2) development of an E-Learning certificate program; and 3) faculty development initiatives. The Institute offers a replicable model for preparing nurses for teaching roles, fostering the development of new and current faculty, as well as serving as a catalyst for the valuing of the teaching role.

The Institute for Nurse Educators draws on a multifaceted set of resources: 1) strong faculty; 2) exceptional resources of a prominent School of Nursing located on an academic health science campus within a statewide university system; 3) proximity to Federal and professional organizations, and 4) extensive experience in applying technology to support both learning and teaching. Thus, the Institute for Nurse Educators is uniquely positioned in seeking to serve as a comprehensive resource for leading change in both how nurses are prepared to teach and in supporting them in that role.

Seed money for the Institute was provided by the School of Nursing with additional support from the University of Maryland Graduate School for specific activities. Federal set-aside dollars added to the base of support. Seeking funding for sustaining the Institute continues as an on-going priority. Strategies for building on faculty expertise and available resources, as well as for facilitating the valuing of teaching in nursing and health professions are addressed in this presentation of how one School of Nursing is leading change to address the deepening faculty shortage in nursing.