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Nurses' experiences of distance education programmes
1School of Nursing and Midwifery, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland. abbey.hyde@ucd.ie <abbey.hyde@ucd.ie>
Journal of Advanced Nursing
|December 22, 2004
Summary
Nurses in distance education (DE) programs experienced both isolation and benefits. Findings suggest strengthening DE for nursing, focusing on minimizing limitations and maximizing potential for effective knowledge dissemination.
Area of Science:
- Nursing Education
- Distance Education
- Qualitative Research
Background:
- Distance education offers flexibility but can lead to student isolation.
- Understanding nurse experiences in distance learning is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the lived experiences of nurses in distance education programs.
- To identify challenges and benefits of distance learning for nurses.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative study utilizing in-depth interviews.
- Convenience sample of 15 nurses.
- Grounded theory methodology for data analysis.
Main Results:
- Four categories emerged: lifeworld lamented, experienced, ceded, and learning within a bounded system.
- Participants navigated subjective (lifeworld) and objective (system) dimensions of education.
- Standardized courses were viewed favorably within personal constraints, despite diverse experiences of program limitations.
Conclusions:
- Distance education is a valuable tool for disseminating nursing knowledge and requires enhancement.
- Nurse educators must develop distance education programs that mitigate drawbacks and leverage strengths.