Title : Setting the standard for caring behaviors in online education
Abstract:
Nursing education has evolved within diverse and dynamic environments, undergoing significant transformations accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic. The shift towards online learning modalities has prompted educators to explore ways to humanize virtual classrooms and exhibit caring behaviors. While the literature highlights the positive outcomes associated with student perception of faculty caring, there is a notable gap in standardized evaluation tools for assessing such behaviors in online nursing education. The primary purpose of this proposed research project is to develop and validate a theory-guided instrument that standardizes the evaluation of faculty behaviors that effectively demonstrate caring to nursing students in an online learning environment. The development and testing of the instrument will have three phases: identification of concepts, item construction, and psychometric testing. Establishing standards grounded in Watson’s Theory of Human Caring will inform systematic evaluation of caring in online nursing education. Alignment is achieved when essential elements of the course, including assessment and measurement, learner interaction and engagement, and technology, synergistically collaborate to promote the attainment of students' learning outcomes and practice readiness. This project aligns with both the NLN 2023 Vision Statement, Integrating Competency-Based Education in the Nursing Curriculum and NLN Competency I - Facilitating Learning by emphasizing attributes that contribute positively to collegial working relationships. Additionally, standardizing the evaluation of caring behaviors create safe learning environments and demonstrates interest in and value for all learners. Incorporating standards for course development alongside an evaluative component supports a comprehensive assessment of caring behaviors in online education. Nurse educators are pivotal in this paradigm shift, as they are tasked with creating environments that facilitate student learning and the achievement of diverse outcomes. This review of literature serves as a catalyst for developing standardized measurement to elevate the quality of caring behaviors in online nursing education. Developing a robust rubric and peer-review process facilitates a consistent approach that empowers educators, enriches the learning experience, and ultimately contributes to the cultivation of caring and competent nursing professionals.
Audience Take Away:
- Understanding the Importance of Caring Behaviors: Our presentation will highlight the significance of caring behaviors in online nursing education, emphasizing their impact on student perception and outcomes. Attendees will gain insights into why evaluating these behaviors is crucial for creating effective learning environments.
- Utilizing Theory-Guided Instrumentation: We will discuss the process of developing a theory-guided instrument designed to standardize the evaluation of faculty behaviors that demonstrate caring to nursing students in online learning environments. Attendees will learn the importance of using the instrument to assess and improve their own teaching practices.
- Important Steps in Instrument Development: Through a detailed explanation of the three-phase process (identification of concepts, item construction, and psychometric testing), attendees will understand how to develop and validate evaluation tools developed from theory. This knowledge empowers educators to expand their own knowledge regarding instrument development.
- Enhancing Course Development and Assessment Practices: Our presentation will demonstrate how incorporating standardized evaluation of caring behaviors enhances course development and assessment practices in online nursing education. Attendees will learn practical strategies for creating safe and supportive learning environments that promote student success and practice readiness.
