The impact of microcomputers on program excellence

The following criteria were used to document program enhancement after the implementation of a microcomputer laboratory: faculty and student attitudes toward computer-assisted instruction (CAI); student anxiety scores toward state board examinations; increased visibility of the college (number of authored CAI modules, CAI grants, computer committee memberships, faculty attendance at computer courses); and relationship involving learning style, attitude, and student learning. Ninety-two of 112 students and 39 of 55 faculty responded to the request for data collection. Postimplementation, both faculty and students showed mean increases in their attitude toward CAI, although not statistically significant. Senior students had significantly decreased anxiety scores toward the state RN licensure examination after using Mosby's NURSESTAR for review (p less than .001). Increased visibility was also documented, but data collection continues regarding the relationship involving learning style, attitude, and student learning. It was concluded that the innovation of computers in an established nursing curriculum served to enhance program excellence.