Abstract
Background: Research regarding e-learning has shown mostly positive results among nurses with benefits like flexibility to learner and repetition whenever desired. In fact, e-learning can replace classroom training, as instructor centered falls prey to the challenges of scheduling a place and time to conduct the class and is more expensive to deliver overall. Current trend in asynchronous learning is through mLearning. mlearning would assist hospitals in achieving mandatory educational targets, which are imperative to the renewal of nursing licenses and reduces the operating costs. In India, we have the rules for renewal of nursing licenses differing, from state to state, minimum of 30 hours per year to 75 hours per year. Hospitals that are accredited to quality improvement bodies like National Accreditation Board for Hospitals and Healthcare Providers and Joint Commission International, maintain a continuous nursing education program under the guidelines. This prompted us to study the utilization of mLearning as a mode of content delivery and conducting monitored assessment. Aim: To study the effectiveness of teaching on mobile based platforms versus regular classrooms. Methodology: 335 nurses from Intensive Care Units (1200 of total hospital) who owned smartphones were included in sample. Connectivity on a mobile platform, currently is widely available at cheaper prices in India, hence, respondents were comfortable using their personal network. As a pilot study, "blood transfusion procedure" related topic approved by ethics committee, was circulated among them through Whatsapp, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube. A posttest questionnaire was circulated to understand experience and perception. Results: 335 nurses participated in the study, 89% were males and 11% were males, 96% were between 18 to 40 years. 53% were Diploma holders, 46% were Bachelor Degree. The respondents showed that in effectiveness of mobile based training the order of highest to lowest correlation - Self-efficacy, facilitating conditions, attitude towards technology, Effort expectancy, performance expectancy. All believe that they have capability to use the technology, and facilities are available to use technology, have right attitude to use technology. Respondents showed that anxiety and social influence will be the lowest on m learning platform compared to group. The assessment exam showed 10% increase in pass rate. We can reduce off-the job cost, trainer cost, facility cost by INR 20,00,000/- per year. Hospital’s top management principally is approving from next year, modules of continuous nursing education programs on mLearning platform. Content is being approved by regional Nursing Council.
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