Using Backward Course Design to Create the Next Generation of Nurse Educator Leaders

The use of backward design is an effective strategy to create innovative and transformative programs. This article describes the use of backward design to create an effective graduate program to prepare nurse educators. Two cohorts of graduates provided feedback regarding program outcomes. Respondents were all working in an educator role after graduation, in both clinical and academic settings. Overall, respondents reported agreement in their ability to perform as effective educators in each of the eight National League for Nursing core competencies for nurse educators. This innovative use of backward design has proven effective in educating the next generation of nurse educators to be leaders in a digital world. [.