Online Nursing Programs

Are fully online nursing programs as good as face-to-face programs? In the modern world of higher education, online distance learning is on the rise. Many institutions around the world are currently offering degrees online. Some of the reasons for the increase in online nursing programs entails an effort to embrace modern technology at the level of academics as well as utilize it to improve the outcome of health care (Ravi and Kuo, 2015). Additionally, an online nursing program has helped deal with the challenge of having inadequate educators to cope with the increasing number of learners. Prospective nurses in most rural areas are now able to access to nursing programs without necessarily having to travel to urban centers for studies given

Nursing students attending this programs benefits from awareness presented by peers and faculty, who can expand understanding and discussions even better and past what is found in specific geographical locale and healthcare organizations. Technology has made the world appear like a small community, and this offers an advantage to nursing students to exchange ideas and information with professionals around the globe. The choices nurses have at the moment is whether to acquire their degrees through attending a face-to-face class or through an online program. It is therefore essential to discuss the pros and cons related to online nursing programs to inform the decision of those who want to join nursing programs. Online nursing programs pose some disadvantages that require an ambitious person to overcome. Cameron (2013) conducted a research on how employers regard online degrees. The findings of the study revealed that academic experts and employers agree on the need for an online program to meet three standards; have a traditional campus, the institution must be reputably accredited and should encompass an excellent academic

Being able to pursue a career far away from the institution has made it possible for nurses to acquire their qualification anytime anywhere. Ravi and Kuo (2015) reveals that even though institutional visits are required sometimes, online programs have made it possible for learners to serve their community while pursuing their career.
Cost
Unlike face-to-face programs, an online nursing program is cost friendly. Students can access curricula modules without necessarily attending a lecture at the institution of higher learning (Kemp and Grieve, 2014). The fee is low given that students are not charged for electricity, classroom, and library use as well as utilization of other resources.
Innovation
Online nursing programs do not provide clinical preceptors. That means that learners have to source for their preceptors which require an application, clinical skills in research and out-of-the-box persuasion and thinking (Campbell et al. 2012). For learners to gain the clinical experience needed during coursework, they have to be motivated to identify or source their clinical preceptors. This boosts their communication skills and reflects their dedication. Above all, this achievement is highly sought in the nursing industry. The author maintains that nurses who acquired their degrees from online nursing programs have demonstrated the same standards of academic and professional preparation as those professionals