Blended Learning Across the Nursing Lifespan

Abstract

Blended learning (BL) uses a combination of online and face-to-face instruction, with a reduction in face-to-face contact time. BL is intended to mitigate some of the challenges associated with online-only instruction, such as a lack of personalization, while improving flexibility when compared to face-to-face instruction. As the demographics of nurses and nursing students change, it is essential that nursing education is able to meet their needs. The purpose of this literature review is to examine the literature available on the use of BL as an instructional method for undergraduate, masters, and doctoral nursing programs as well as continued education of Registered Nurses (RNs) throughout their career. The results suggest that BL is at least as effective as traditional delivery methods and may offer additional advantages such as increased satisfaction and critical thinking for students. More rigorous research of BL in the field of nursing is required to further explore the effects.

Discipline: Nursing

Faculty Mentor: Keri-Ann Berga