Introduction of a blended teaching strategy in an occupational health nursing education programme

Abstract

The purpose of this case study is to describe the use of a blended learning strategy to address some of the challenges experienced by adult nursing students in a specialised occupational health nursing course. These students are generally employed on a full-time basis and have a number of competing responsibilities that may impact on their studies. Blended learning using e-learning and face-to-face problem-based learning was identi- fied as a useful educational strategy to address some of the challenges faced by these students in furthering their education. A blended learning strategy addresses the main assumptions of adult education, including self-directed learning, experience as a resource for learning, readiness to learn, problem-centred orientation with immediacy of application, and internal motivation. This educational strategy is recommended for adult learners and a formal evaluation of this blended learning method is planned.