Evaluating a Web-enhanced bachelor of nursing curriculum: perspectives of third-year students

J Nurs Educ. 2007 Oct;46(10):460-7. doi: 10.3928/01484834-20071001-06.

Abstract

Little is known about nursing students' information literacy skills and perceptions of Web-enhanced educational approaches. This study examined graduating Bachelor of Nursing (BN) students' perceptions of a Web-enhanced learning environment, their computer literacy skills, and use of technology, and how these influenced their satisfaction. This Australian survey produced a 64% (n = 170) response rate. The 3-year BN program provides Web-enhanced learning opportunities by incorporating online activities and content such as quizzes, videos, and virtual laboratories that augment on-campus and off-campus learning approaches. Upon graduation, 61.4% of the students reported having competent information literacy skills. The quality and usefulness of the Web-enhanced material was rated fair to above average. The students' perception of technical and faculty support for Web-enhanced learning was low. Overall satisfaction with the Web-enhanced program was associated with level of information technology (IT) skills and perceived quality and usefulness of the Internet material. A regression analysis of factors contributing to students' overall satisfaction of a Web-enhanced learning environment (IT literacy skills, access, and perceived quality, usefulness, and support) accounted for 18.5% of variance. As more nursing programs use Web-based resources, greater attention should be given to the initial assessment and development of students' information literacy skills. Students with good IT skills are more likely to perceive Web-enhanced material as useful.

Publication types

  • Evaluation Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Attitude of Health Personnel*
  • Attitude to Computers*
  • Australia
  • Computer Literacy
  • Computer User Training
  • Computer-Assisted Instruction / methods*
  • Curriculum / standards
  • Education, Nursing, Baccalaureate / organization & administration*
  • Faculty, Nursing
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Internet / organization & administration*
  • Interprofessional Relations
  • Male
  • Nursing Education Research
  • Nursing Methodology Research
  • Professional Competence / standards
  • Program Evaluation
  • Regression Analysis
  • Self Efficacy
  • Social Support
  • Students, Nursing / psychology*
  • Surveys and Questionnaires