J Nurs Educ. 2021 Jul;60(7):419-421. doi: 10.3928/01484834-20210616-12. Epub 2021 Jul 01.

Student Perspectives: Discussion Boards as Learning Strategies in Online Accelerated Nursing Courses.

The Journal of nursing education

Melissa Scott, Stephanie L Turrise

PMID: 34232820 DOI: 10.3928/01484834-20210616-12

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Discussion boards are frequently used as learning strategies in online nursing courses. Student perceptions of this strategy have not been fully explored. This study aimed to determine student perspectives and preferences of discussion boards as learning strategies in online accelerated nursing courses.

METHOD: This mixed-method pilot study described RN-to-Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN-to-BSN) (

RESULTS: Students had an overall positive perception about using discussion boards as learning strategies. RN-to-BSN students preferred a discussion summary over faculty participation. MSN-NE students preferred faculty participation but also found a summary to be helpful.

CONCLUSION: A well-designed discussion can enhance student engagement and contribute to successful online learning experiences. Faculty should use a combination of real-time feedback through active participation and provide a discussion summary. Deciding how faculty should engage may depend on the complexity of course content being explored.

MeSH terms

• Education, Distance*
• Education, Nursing, Baccalaureate*
• Faculty, Nursing
• Feedback
• Humans
• Pilot Projects
• Students, Nursing*

Publication Types

• Journal Article