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Registered Nurses' Thoughts on Blended Learning in a Postgraduate Course in Cancer care—Content Analyses of Web Surveys and a Focus Group Interview

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Abstract

Purpose of the research was to describe registered nurses' (RNs) (n = 53) thoughts on the blended learning format in a ‘specialist nursing programme in cancer care’. The study was conducted in autumn 2007 and 2008. A content analysis of answers to open-ended questions in a web-based questionnaire and a focus group interview were carried out. The analysis revealed that the RNs appreciated blended learning. The web lectures facilitated learning and gave RNs access to the education at any time. However, according to the RNs, knowledge is gained through interaction between RNs and teachers, and this aspect needed to be improved. The RNs also thought that the content of the seminars on campus should focus on evidence-based nursing knowledge and practical skills, not just taught as stable facts and procedures. The result from the present study could help to improve the design and content of advanced nursing courses using a blended learning format.

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Acknowledgments

The study was supported by grants from the Faculty of Medicine, Uppsala University. The authors also wish to express their gratitude to the RNs who participated in the two courses and answered the questions.

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Correspondence to Cecilia Arving.

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Arving, C., Wadensten, B. & Johansson, B. Registered Nurses' Thoughts on Blended Learning in a Postgraduate Course in Cancer care—Content Analyses of Web Surveys and a Focus Group Interview. J Canc Educ 29, 278–283 (2014). https://doi.org/10.1007/s13187-013-0594-6

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s13187-013-0594-6

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