Paper
Friday, July 13, 2007
Perceptions of Nursing Educators on the Future of Nursing Education
Lois H. Neuman, PhD, RN, LHNeuman, Consultants, Potomac, MD, USA
| Learning Objective #1: Identify three findings from the study on perceptions of nurse educators. |
| Learning Objective #2: Describe two recommendations from the survey findings applicable to the future of nursing education. |
Description/Area of Focus
Given the expansion of technology in healthcare and education coupled with decreased numbers of personnel due to downsizing, restructure, and retirements, healthcare and nursing education experienced shortages of qualified nursing staff and educators. As a result, over the past 5-10 years in nursing education, nurse educators incorporated a variety of teaching/learning methods including virtual reality, long distance, simulations as well as chatrooms, e-mail, Blackboard, Powerpoint, and other software/electronic transmission. From all appearances, technology filled the void left by faculty vacancies and efficiently served as a human replacement strategy in the United States and abroad.
A review of the literature revealed numerous studies on teaching/learning strategies in nursing education included the outcome, evaluation, student perceptions, and comparisons of technology and face to face but nothing on faculty perception of the change in education delivery, their role, and future expectations. From 2002-2006, attendees at a session on the Future of Nursing education at 16 conferences were asked to complete a questionnaire for submission at the end of the discussion. This session will present at least three findings on the perceptions of 477 respondents who completed the questionnaire. The findings capture insights of nurse educators; some with over 25 years experience, before they retire or leave the workforce, and raise questions for further examination on technology as a human replacement strategy, especially in nursing education.
Practical Application/ Innovative Strategy
This session will offer the opportunity to discuss some of the survey findings, examine specific examples of nursing educator responses, and discuss recommendations for future nurse educators.
Conclusion/Benefit to Conference Participants
At the conclusion of this session, conference attendees will take home at least three perceptions of nursing educators on the future of nursing education and ideas to enhance the nursing learning environment.