The e-Poster Conference: An Online Nursing Research Course Learning Activity

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Scientific Communication
• Online Learning

Background:

• Electronic posters (e-posters) are a significant method for scientific communication.
• This article details an e-poster conference as an online learning activity for professional nursing students.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe an innovative online learning activity using an e-poster conference for professional nursing students.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of an e-poster conference in enhancing nursing students' understanding of research and evidence-based practice (EBP).

Main Methods:

• Research and EBP posters were hosted on a university course website.
• Students engaged in activities to understand research and EBP processes before evaluating and discussing e-poster content and layout.

Main Results:

• The e-poster conference was positively received by students.
• Students gained exposure to a broad range of nursing science studies and projects.
• The activity fostered the development of critical evaluation and communication skills.
• Students were exposed to evidence that can be translated into practice.

Conclusions:

• The e-poster conference is an effective strategy for stimulating critical thinking in professional nurses.
• This online learning model can be adopted by other institutions to enhance nursing education and practice.