Chinese Nurses' Preferences for and Attitudes About e-Learning in Continuing Education: A Correlational Study

J Contin Educ Nurs. 2020 Feb 1;51(2):87-96. doi: 10.3928/00220124-20200115-08.

Abstract

Background: This study aimed to examine nurses' preferences for and attitudes toward e-learning, identify factors that motivated or discouraged their e-learning participation, and also find the relationship between the nurse's attitude and their characteristics.

Method: A total of 534 RNs from eight hospitals in Shanghai were recruited. Data were collected using a questionnaire that consisted of e-learning experiences, barriers, motivating factors, learning preferences, and attitudes toward e-learning.

Results: Flexibility was the most important motivating factor and lack of time was the most common barrier to their participating in e-learning. Participants who had no e-learning experiences reported more barriers about lack of familiarity with e-learning and e-learning platforms. Nearly half of the participants exhibited positive attitudes toward e-learning. Regression analysis identified that nurses who were married, used computers frequently, and worked in rural hospitals were associated with more positive attitudes toward e-learning.

Conclusion: Nurse educators and managers could provide more opportunities for nurses to increase their familiarity with online education technology and develop more high-quality online courses to meet nurses' learning needs. [J Contin Educ Nurs. 2020;51(2):87-96.].

Publication types

  • Multicenter Study

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Attitude of Health Personnel*
  • Attitude to Computers*
  • China
  • Computer-Assisted Instruction / methods*
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Education, Distance / organization & administration*
  • Education, Nursing, Continuing / organization & administration*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Nursing Staff, Hospital / education*
  • Nursing Staff, Hospital / psychology*
  • Surveys and Questionnaires