Using an electronic assessment system for nursing students on placements

Electronic assessment is gaining popularity in clinically based elements of pre-registration nurse education. In this study, the authors explored student nurse and mentor experiences during transition from a paper to an electronic system. Mixed research methods used included survey questionnaires and focus groups. Student nurses and their mentors (both n=5) discussed and rated their confidence and skills in information technology and their experience of an electronic assessment document before and after two successive clinical placements. Students' self-reported confidence increased after both placements; mentors' confidence fell after the first placement. Students reported the fewest needs for additional support, while mentors expressed anxieties about system navigation and time required. The main barrier was lack of access to computers connected to the internet in the practice environment. Nevertheless, students and mentors were receptive to the change. Training and support was seen as essential. Serious challenges in up-scaling this system for complete student cohorts lie in wait if computer availability is not addressed.