Rod Ward

Issues with e-learning in nursing and health education in the UK: are new technologies being embraced in the teaching and learning environments?

In this paper we present aspects of a study that scoped e-learning implementation in nursing and health science disciplines throughout the UK and explored the factors affecting use. Data related to the use of technologies are presented here. While there are many drivers for the use of e-learning, the current scope of engagement in nursing and health science disciplines is unknown and variations in adoption have not been explored. A postal questionnaire sent to a purposive sample of 93 Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) obtained data from 25 universities (response rate of 28%) related to their uptake and development of e-learning. Questionnaire data was analysed using descriptive statistics. From this, nine HEIs were identified, reflecting a range of levels of engagement in e-learning. Data was collected through 35 staff interviews across the sites. Qualitative data from the interviews was transcribed to allow thematic analysis. Though e-learning adoption and use vary across the sector, the predominant learning and teaching engagement is instructivist and managed through a virtual learning environment. There is limited experimentation with e-learning and teaching use, linked to key centres of excellence and the efforts of ‘champions’. It is suggested that a more systematic approach to development and funding is required to achieve enhanced use of e-learning.

Interactive video: an analysis of its value to nurse education

This paper attempts to explain the emerging technology of interactive video and examine its possible place in nursing education. A brief description of the media is given with an exploration of the educational theory and justification underlying its use. A range of approaches to the evaluation of the technology itself and software available are given, which examine advantages and disadvantages for individual learners and for an organisation considering investment in this area. The possible role of interactive video in nurse education is discussed and a recommendation given that nurse educators need to keep up-to-date with developments in this type of educational technology and develop software suitable for the needs of nurses, rather than having to use packages developed for other purposes which have limited application for nursing.

Online multimedia delivery of the European Union directive within adult nursing education

The use of online multimedia content in nurse education is still in its infancy with limited research about its role and acceptance by students and staff within nursing courses. This paper describes the development of interactive web-based delivery for the European Union directive (77/453/EEC) for maternity, child care and mental health within adult nursing education. An evaluative study carried out by an online questionnaire with students, using both structured questions and free text, and a focus group with staff whilst identifying areas for further development found general acceptance of this approach. The study has provided important insights into both the content and delivery of the packs, and the format of the material. The use of IT, with multimedia elements, was seen as being beneficial by both students and staff. The findings will be useful in improving and developing the packs for future cohorts.

NMAP: the UK’s nursing Internet gateway

This article describes the development of NMAP, the UK academic gateway to high-quality Internet resources for Nurses, Midwives and Allied health Professionals. The service is described and the rationale for NMAP summarized, focusing on the increasing use of Internet resources in nursing education and practice. International concerns over the quality of health information available on the Internet are considered, and the approach adopted by NMAP to quality filtering described. The usage data and results of evaluation studies show the need for this type of Internet gateway, and some of the lessons may be relevant to others involved in developing national high-quality Internet gateways for nurses.