Benefits of an Online Interactive Educational Program Over Traditional Textbooks

Background: Technology has become increasingly prominent in nursing education. Online learning platforms may be more useful than traditional textbooks in promoting active learning, engagement, and satisfaction. Purpose: The purpose was to evaluate a new online interactive education program (OIEP) that replaces traditional textbooks and to understand student and faculty satisfaction, perceived efficacy of the program, student engagement, and whether the OIEP can help NCLEX preparation and reduce burnout. Method: This retrospective study assessed student and faculty perceptions of the constructs using quantitative and qualitative measures. Perceptions were measured at 2 time points each: halfway through the semester and again at its conclusion. Results: Mean efficacy scores of groups were high at both time points. Students showed significant increases in content constructs, which were supported by faculty perceptions of students. Students agreed that using the OIEP throughout their program would significantly increase preparedness for NCLEX. Conclusion: The OIEP may better support nursing students throughout school and on NCLEX than traditional textbooks.