Orient Me: Transitioning to the Online Learning Environment

Melissa MeekerDr. Kelli WhittingtonDr. Richelle Rennegarbe

Objectives• Examine the impact of an online and face-to-

face orientation to assist students in their transition to an online nursing environment. •Compare and contrast the online and face-

to-face models for assisting students in online learning.• Explore the online model used at McKendree

University

Online ProgramRN to BSN ProgramMSN Program

Dual MSN/MBAEducatorManagerPalliative Care

Literature Review•Online learners “must feel a sense of

comfort that will enable them to participate in the online environment” (McQuaid, 2010, p. 190).•Gilmore & Lyons (2012) found that a

mandatory face-to-face orientation reduced attrition from 20% to 1%.

Literature Review•According to Gilmore and Lyons (2012), “a

quality online program requires a well-designed orientation” (p. 45)

Orientation•2012•Mandatory•UNI 105 was

designed for the RN to BSN students•UNI 505 was

designed for the MSN students

•2013• Elective• First face-to-face

orientation at each of our three campuses

Online Orientation- Melissa Meeker

Online orientation

Face to Face Orientation-Dr. Kelli D. Whittington-Meet & Greet format-Based on student request-Invitations-All Faculty-Multiple Staff-IT

PowToon

Summary•Valuable information can be provided to students in the orientation process•Orientation is vital to the success of online learners•Retention can be enhanced with a strong orientation

Questions?

References• Gilmore, M. & Lyons, E. M. (2012). Nursing 911: An orientation program to improve retention of online RN-BSN students. Nursing Education Perspectives, 33(1), 45-47.• McQuaid, J. W. (2010). Using cognitive load to evaluate participation and design of an asynchronous course. The American Journal of Distance Education, 24, 177-197. doi: 101080/08923647.2010.519949

References• Reilly, J. R., Gallagher-Lepak, S. & Killion, C. (2012). “Me

and my computer”: Emotional factors in online learning. Nursing Education Perspectives, 33(2), 100-105.