Nurses’ opinions about a web-based distance course in a specialist education programme for the care of older people: a questionnaire study

Abstract

Aim. The aim of the present study was to investigate students' opinions about a web-based distance learning course that was part of a specialist education programme. Background. Most registered nurses (RNs) who work with older people in Sweden do not have a specialist education in caring for older people. Design. Survey. Method. The study was a descriptive survey with both qualitative and quantitative questions. Results. The students found the web-based course very useful for their theoretical and professional development. New perspectives on ageing, increased knowledge about analysing and describing theories as well as practising interviews and qualitative analysis as methods were appreciated by the students. Conclusions. One way for RNs in Sweden to get a university specialist education in the care of older people is to have a distance web-based course, as it allows flexibility and improves the students' theoretical and professional knowledge and communication skills. Relevance for clinical practice. Managers working in care for older people settings and educators will be interested in this study's finding that distance learning is a useful strategy for providing education for RNs who work with older people.