Summary of Learnings

The Role of Instructor Presence in Healthcare Education

Instructor presence is essential in online learning, particularly in healthcare education, where engagement and motivation directly impact learning outcomes. Creating an interpersonal connection through tools like welcome videos helps establish trust, support, and clarity. A welcoming video sets the tone for the course and fosters a sense of community, motivating students to engage actively. Incorporating personal storytelling, such as sharing professional experiences, humanizes the instructor and strengthens student relationships. Additionally, the effectiveness of short videos (under five minutes) in sustaining student attention is supported by research on cognitive load theory and Universal Design for Learning (UDL). While the welcome video establishes strong initial engagement, future iterations could integrate interactive elements to further increase student participation and connection.

The Importance of Storyboarding in Course Development

Storyboarding is a crucial tool in online course development, offering a visual representation that helps organize and structure the course content. By using tools like Excel, course developers can break down complex materials into manageable sections, ensuring alignment with learning objectives. This approach is particularly beneficial in healthcare education, where clarity and coherence are vital. A storyboard aids in tracking course progress and refining delivery, allowing for easy adjustments and improvements. The visual nature of storyboards helps reduce cognitive load, making course content easier to navigate for both developers and learners. Storyboarding not only streamlines development but also ensures that the course remains logically organized and focused on achieving its educational goals.

Pressure Injury Prevention for Healthcare Professionals

Pressure injury prevention is a critical concern in healthcare settings, especially for high-risk populations with limited mobility. An online teaching module designed for healthcare professionals covers evidence-based strategies for the prevention, identification, and management of pressure injuries. The course will use a blended learning approach, combining theoretical knowledge with interactive activities, quizzes, videos, and case studies. The four key sections of the module include an introduction to pressure injuries, risk assessment and identification, prevention strategies, and monitoring continuous improvement. The module is designed for a broad audience, including nurses, physicians, and allied health staff, and emphasizes collaborative learning and peer discussions. By the end of the course, participants will be equipped with the practical skills to assess patient risk, implement prevention measures, and evaluate outcomes, contributing to better patient care and safety.

Instructor’s Personal Profile and Role in Nursing Education

As a Clinical Practice Leader in an ICU and a nurse educator, the instructor emphasizes the importance of mentorship, leadership, and student-centered teaching. With expertise in critical care, wound care, telemetry, and adult education, the instructor shares practical knowledge and experiences to prepare students for the challenges they will face in real-world clinical settings. Passionate about mental health and wellness, the instructor also advocates for better mental health support for healthcare providers. Through certifications in various specialties and emergency management, the instructor stays committed to lifelong learning and professional growth. The instructor's role in shaping future healthcare leaders is guided by a commitment to developing compassionate, competent, and resilient professionals in nursing education.

The Universal Importance of these Practices in Online Education

In summary, the principles discussed such as strong instructor presence, effective use of storyboarding, blended learning approaches, and fostering a sense of community are critical for all online courses, regardless of the subject being taught. Whether teaching healthcare professionals, business students, or creatives, these principles enhance student engagement, motivation, and overall learning outcomes. In an online setting, where face-to-face interaction is limited, it is vital to intentionally create opportunities for connection, collaboration, and interaction. By utilizing strategies such as video, peer discussions, and real-world case studies, instructors can ensure that students feel engaged, supported, and empowered to succeed.

Online learning, when designed thoughtfully with these principles in mind, can provide a dynamic and effective educational experience for students in any discipline. The strategies discussed not only apply to healthcare but can be adapted to enhance any online learning environment, fostering a culture of engagement, growth, and success.