How Nurse Educators Perceive the Transition From the Traditional Classroom to the Online Environment: A Qualitative Inquiry

Abstract

AIM 

This study was conducted to explore the experiences of nurse educators who transitioned from traditional classroom to an online learning environment, either 100 percent online or in hybrid courses.

BACKGROUND 

Online education is an effective way to reach students; however, online education requires a different pedagogy than the traditional classroom.

METHOD 

Nurse educators who transitioned from traditional classroom to online environments (100 percent online or hybrid) were interviewed using 13 guided interview questions designed to explore the challenges experienced during the transition.

RESULTS 

Challenges nurse educators experienced included a need for professional development for learning a new pedagogy and learning management system, technological support, mentorship in transitioning to the new mode of teaching, and a mind shift in teaching to a different pedagogy.

CONCLUSION 

The results provide practical information for nurse educators who may be interested teaching online courses.