Barbara Sinacori1, Mona Williams-Gregory. 1. About the Authors The authors are faculty at Rutgers University School of Nursing, Newark, New Jersey. Barbara Sinacori, PhD, RN, CNRN, CNE, is an assistant professor, Division of Entry to Baccalaureate Nursing. Mona Williams-Gregory, PhD, DNP, ACNP, is an assistant professor, Division of Entry to Baccalaureate Nursing. For more information, contact Dr. Sincori at bcs125@sn.rutgers.edu, or Dr. Williams-Gregory at mlw120@rutgers.edu.
Abstract
AIM: The aim of the study was to determine the effect of distance learning on knowledge acquisition in undergraduate second-degree nursing students, a growing population of nursing students. BACKGROUND: Distance learning is a convenient way of attaining professional training. METHOD: The study was conducted by critical appraisal and data extraction using Joanna Briggs Institute tools for quasi-experimental, qualitative systematic reviews and research synthesis and randomized control research. Risk for bias was determined using the Cochrane collaboration tool. RESULTS: Eleven studies from five countries are included in the review: four quantitative, two qualitative, one mixed-method, and four integrative review. Dates range from 2015 to 2018. CONCLUSION: The evidence suggests that knowledge acquisition is not impacted by educational setting alone. Flipped classroom and mixed-method instruction were found to positively impact knowledge acquisition. Distance learning, coupled with traditional face-to-face instruction, has a greater impact on knowledge acquisition than either method alone. Online methodologies improve clinical skill acquisition more than face-to-face instruction.
AIM: The aim of the study was to determine the effect of distance learning on knowledge acquisition in undergraduate second-degree nursing students, a growing population of nursing students. BACKGROUND: Distance learning is a convenient way of attaining professional training. METHOD: The study was conducted by critical appraisal and data extraction using Joanna Briggs Institute tools for quasi-experimental, qualitative systematic reviews and research synthesis and randomized control research. Risk for bias was determined using the Cochrane collaboration tool. RESULTS: Eleven studies from five countries are included in the review: four quantitative, two qualitative, one mixed-method, and four integrative review. Dates range from 2015 to 2018. CONCLUSION: The evidence suggests that knowledge acquisition is not impacted by educational setting alone. Flipped classroom and mixed-method instruction were found to positively impact knowledge acquisition. Distance learning, coupled with traditional face-to-face instruction, has a greater impact on knowledge acquisition than either method alone. Online methodologies improve clinical skill acquisition more than face-to-face instruction.