Factors contributing to nursing distance education student success

Abstract

Much of the literature has focused on students in the traditional baccalaureate programs versus those who attend classes at a satellite campus and use a hybrid (combination of classroom and on-line) format. In addition, the RN-BSN nursing distance education (NDE) student population is characteristically older than the traditional student, has full or part time nursing employment, and has family responsibilities placing them at higher risk for attrition. Student attrition at a Southern California state university was higher than in the on-campus face-to-face cohorts. As attrition of NDE students continued to be an issue, the identification of risk factors for attrition and development of additional evidence-based interventions and tools was needed to promote optimal student success. Prior to the study, a few informal initiatives had been undertaken to attempt to impact attrition, but with limited success. The study validated and expanded upon reports about non-traditional NDE students at risk of attrition. As a result of the study, more focused retention initiatives have been developed to assist students to be successful and persist to graduation, such as writing tutors, library orientation, computer and technology “boot camps”, alternate study plans (full-time and part-time), offering a hybrid course format  (on campus and on-line class), and peer support. Attrition of students in the RN-to-BSN cohort has been reduced and the effect of the interventions continues to be monitored.