Learning Objective #1: Describe best practices for teaching and learning when designing and implementing online teaching strategies

Learning Objective #2: Discuss the most commonly identified student outcomes in Web-based nursing instruction

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Web-based instruction in higher education has developed rapidly within the last decade. Colleges and universities are using this delivery method to provide access to education as well as student support services. It has been predicted that by the year 2010 that most universities will offer some of their degree programs as Web-based options. This study focused upon expert nurse educators' use of the Internet in teaching. The literature addressing the effect of Web-based instruction on learner outcomes in nursing education is sparse. Using a case study method this study investigated four questions: (a) How do nurse educators develop instructional strategies when using Web-based instruction in nursing education? (b) How do nurse educators formatively evaluate Web-based instruction? (c) What does summative evaluation of Web-based instruction reveal about student outcomes? (d) How does summative evaluation inform the development of instructional strategies by nurse educators using Web-based instruction? Themes that emerged from the case analysis were: (a) factors that teachers consider when designing online teaching strategies, (b) student outcomes in Web-based instruction, and (c) external factors that impact the effectiveness of Web-based instruction. These themes were not independent of one another, but were interwoven to provide a thick description of how expert nurse educators develop effective online instruction. The research indicates that expert teachers use best practices for teaching and learning when designing and implementing teaching strategies. Feedback from formative and summative evaluations also informs decisions about teaching methods. Student achievement and satisfaction are the most commonly identified student outcomes. The study revealed that student work is richer, more informed, and of a higher standard in Web-based courses. Students also develop a feeling of community with their online colleagues when teachers promote collaboration and interactivity.