Accelerated RNBS Program: Leading Change for an Online Education Initiative
Presentation
Overview
Overview
Description
A traditional online RNBS program embraced an accelerated online format and led an innovative online education initiative in the University. The increased demand for RNs to return to school to earn a baccalaureate degree for practice as well as the stability of this traditional online RNBS program served as the primary reasons this program was selected as the pilot program to expand the virtual University. How the conventional university culture of teaching and learning adopted an innovative accelerated online culture both in and outside the school of nursing will be described. The necessary resources used to support the students and faculty throughout the transition will be identified. Curriculum and program requirements were adjusted to provide the RN greater ease to return to school. The structure for the course redesign and the decision to utilize teaching associates within the nursing courses will be reviewed. Key features were incorporated into all accelerated courses to encourage student-faculty engagement. The challenges that arose and how we overcame them as well as successes of the transformation to an accelerated online program format will be highlighted. Students have welcomed the change of the accelerated online format and enrollment is growing steadily. Numerous RNs desire and need to return to school to earn a baccalaureate degree. The transformation of the RNBS program to an accelerated format provides a marketable program and quality education for these RNs.
