E-learning & information communication technology (ICT) in nursing education: A review of the literature

Didy Button, Ann Harrington, Ingrid Belan

    Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

    171 Citations (Scopus)

    Abstract

    OBJECTIVES: To examine primary research articles published between January 2001 and December 2012 that focused on the issues for students and educators involved with E-learning in preregistration nursing programs. The literature was systematically reviewed, critically appraised and thematically analyzed.

    BACKGROUND: E-learning is arguably the most significant change to occur in nursing education since the move from hospital training to the tertiary sector. Differences in computer and information literacy for both students and educators influence the success of implementation of E-learning into current curricula.

    DATA SOURCES: Online databases including CINAHL, MEDLINE, OVID, the ProQuest Central, PubMed, ERIC and Science Direct were used.

    METHODS: The criteria used for selecting studies reviewed were: primary focus on electronic learning and issues faced by nursing students and/or nurse educators from undergraduate preregistration nursing programs; all articles had to be primary research studies, published in English in peer reviewed journals between January 2001 and December 2012.

    RESULTS: Analysis of the 28 reviewed studies revealed the following three themes: issues relating to E-learning for students; use of information technologies; educator (faculty) issues involving pedagogy, workload and staff development in E-learning and associated technology.

    CONCLUSION: The review highlighted that commencing preregistration nursing students required ongoing education and support surrounding nursing informatics. This support would enable students to progress and be equipped with the life-long learning skills required to provide safe evidence based care. The review also identified the increased time and skill demands placed on nurse educators to adapt their current education methodologies and teaching strategies to incorporate E-learning.

    Original languageEnglish
    Pages (from-to)1311-1323
    Number of pages13
    JournalNurse Education Today
    Volume34
    Issue number10
    Early online date18 Jun 2013
    DOIs
    Publication statusPublished - 1 Oct 2014

    Keywords

    • E-learning
    • Informatics
    • Education
    • Nursing
    • Student
    • Faculty

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