Helping hospital educators and clinical nurse specialists learn to use and develop computer-assisted instruction

The impact of computers on healthcare delivery and management is both significant and increasing. Coupled with its potential educational benefits, computer-assisted instruction (CAI) has much to offer healthcare professionals. However, the individuals directly responsible for training nurses and other personnel typically have little knowledge about how computers can be used for training purposes. A series of workshops was designed for hospital educators and clinical nurse specialists to help them become computer literate and to provide them with the skills to evaluate, develop, and appropriately implement instructional software was emphasized during a series of formal seminars, guided individual instruction, and guided independent practice laboratory sessions. This approach resulted in a significant increase in participants' knowledge about computers while maintaining their positive attitudes toward the instructional uses of computers. A well-designed staff development program can provide these crucial individuals with the skills and knowledge required to use microcomputers and CAI as effective teaching and learning tools.