Distance Learning Nursing
Distance learning nursing degree programs were created to provide a flexible and convenient way for people wanting to enter the healthcare industry to become Registered Nurses, or RN's. Distance learning nursing degrees range from associates to doctorates, and the career possibilities include nursing assistants, registered nurses, and perioperative or emergency room nurses. There are distance learning nursing programs where all the coursework can be completed away from the college and some programs are hybrid, requiring some coursework to be completed on campus and some off campus.
Distance learning nursing degree programs that are completed entirely online have come under some criticism in the healthcare field. Much of the criticism surrounds the fact that working as a nurse requires hands on interaction with patients. Learning how to properly interact with a variety of patients comes from experience generally gained through a traditional nursing program. In traditional programs, students are guided by a preceptor, or person who has worked in the nursing industry and can guide the students through real life examples. Some distance learning nursing programs provide access to preceptors who work alongside the students bringing them practical and up to date knowledge. Preceptors are especially important in perioperative distance learning nursing programs because operating room nurses see a wide variety of highly critical patients and must be able to continuously communicate with doctors. To counteract the critics of distance learning nursing programs, a distance learning nursing student may consider getting a part time position or volunteering in a clinical setting. This experience will provide the student with real world situational experience.
The American Association of Colleges and Nursing, or AACN, is the nationally recognized agency that researches educational facilities specializing in nursing. The AACN's stance on distance learning nursing programs is that the programs must provide the same level of excellence and accreditation standards as a traditional nursing program. The AACN further states that the distance learning nursing program must provide social and clinical education for the nurses. The Collegiate Commission on Nursing Education or CCNE is both nationally recognized and recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education as the accreditation agency for nursing schools. When considering a distance learning nursing program, one should ensure it is accredited by the CCNE. The standards of the CCNE for distance learning nursing programs are the same as for traditional programs and if the school is accredited, the student will know he or she is getting a quality degree.
