Background of the Study
Blended learning, which integrates traditional face-to-face instruction with online learning, has become a prominent pedagogical approach in higher education, particularly in health sciences. In nursing education, this model has garnered attention for its potential to provide students with flexibility, enhance engagement, and improve learning outcomes. As the demand for nurses continues to grow globally, educational institutions are tasked with adopting innovative strategies to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge. At the University of Lagos Teaching Hospital (ULTH), the implementation of blended learning in nursing education presents an opportunity to evaluate its effectiveness in preparing future healthcare professionals. Blended learning offers an opportunity to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical clinical experience by using a combination of in-person instruction and online learning platforms. It has been suggested that this approach enhances the accessibility of education, supports diverse learning preferences, and promotes self-directed learning, all of which are essential for nursing students (Kebritchi, Lipschuetz, & Santiague, 2023).
Despite its promising advantages, the effectiveness of blended learning in nursing education remains a subject of debate. Researchers have emphasized that the integration of digital tools and resources requires careful planning and support to maximize its potential (Ali, 2024). While blended learning can enhance flexibility and accessibility, there are concerns regarding its impact on the development of clinical skills, which are critical for nursing practice. Some scholars argue that the online components of blended learning may not fully replicate the hands-on, interactive experience that students need in clinical settings (Boonchai, 2023). Thus, it is essential to assess how well this pedagogical model meets the specific needs of nursing students at ULTH, particularly in terms of their clinical competencies and preparedness for real-world healthcare challenges.
This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of blended learning in the nursing program at ULTH, exploring both the strengths and weaknesses of its implementation. By focusing on the outcomes of this learning model, the research will contribute to the broader understanding of how blended learning can be optimized to enhance nursing education and address the evolving demands of the healthcare industry.
Statement of the Problem
The increasing reliance on blended learning in nursing education raises pertinent questions about its effectiveness, especially in terms of its ability to foster both theoretical understanding and clinical proficiency. While online learning offers flexibility, there is a lack of consensus on whether it can adequately address the practical skills required in nursing. Furthermore, many nursing educators and administrators at the University of Lagos Teaching Hospital are unsure about the long-term benefits of this teaching approach for student learning outcomes. There is a concern that students might not gain the hands-on clinical exposure needed to develop the practical competencies expected in nursing practice. Moreover, the absence of structured guidelines for online platforms and inconsistent access to technology may hinder the effectiveness of blended learning. Thus, there is a critical need to evaluate the specific challenges and successes associated with implementing blended learning in nursing education at ULTH. Understanding the effectiveness of this model can provide insights into how it can be improved or modified to better serve the students and the healthcare system in the long run.
Objectives of the Study
1. To evaluate the effectiveness of blended learning in enhancing theoretical knowledge among nursing students at the University of Lagos Teaching Hospital.
2. To assess the impact of blended learning on the development of clinical competencies in nursing students at ULTH.
3. To identify the challenges and limitations of implementing blended learning in the nursing program at ULTH.
Research Questions
1. How effective is blended learning in improving theoretical knowledge among nursing students at the University of Lagos Teaching Hospital?
2. What is the impact of blended learning on the clinical competencies of nursing students at ULTH?
3. What challenges are faced by nursing educators and students in implementing blended learning at ULTH?
Research Hypotheses
1. Blended learning is significantly effective in enhancing theoretical knowledge among nursing students at the University of Lagos Teaching Hospital.
2. There is a positive relationship between blended learning and the clinical competencies of nursing students at ULTH.
3. Students and educators face significant challenges in the implementation of blended learning in nursing education at ULTH.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study will focus on nursing students and educators at the University of Lagos Teaching Hospital, specifically assessing the implementation of blended learning within the nursing program. The research will concentrate on both theoretical and clinical aspects of nursing education, exploring student experiences, educator perspectives, and institutional support mechanisms. The study's limitations include potential biases in self-reported data from participants and the challenge of generalizing the findings to other institutions due to the specific context of ULTH. Furthermore, the study may be limited by the availability of resources, such as technology, which may influence the effectiveness of blended learning.
Definitions of Terms
• Blended learning: A pedagogical approach that combines traditional face-to-face classroom instruction with online learning, utilizing digital resources to enhance the learning experience.
• Clinical competencies: The practical skills and knowledge required for effective nursing practice, including patient assessment, medical procedures, and communication within healthcare teams.
• Nursing education: The process of preparing individuals for careers in nursing through academic programs that include both theoretical learning and practical training in clinical settings.
• Online learning: An educational model where learning occurs primarily through the internet, using platforms such as learning management systems (LMS), video lectures, and digital assignments.
Chapter One: Introduction
1.1 Background of the Study
Religious media advertising is a unique form of communication that integr...
ABSTRACT
Urban densification is as a result of increase in the level of urbanisation of a limited area which causes challenges in the hou...
Background of the Study
Billboard advertising has evolved from mere promotional tools to major contributors to urban aesthe...
Background of the study
Semantic shifts—changes in the meaning of words or expressions—are rapidly occurring in digital commu...
Background of the Study:
Regulatory compliance is an essential aspect of modern banking, ensuring that financial institutio...
Background of the Study
In 2023, President Bola Tinubu’s administration made a bold decision to remove the fuel subsi...
ABSTRACT
The tremendous impact of electronic technology (like computer and computer embedded devices, computer networkin...
Background of the study :
Educational investments are widely acknowledged as pivotal to long-term economic growth, enhancin...
Background of the Study
Debit fee structures have a direct impact on consumer spending patterns, influencing how frequently customers eng...
Background of the Study
The utilization of tax revenue plays a pivotal role in driving community development by funding pro...