Due to a dramatic influx of students, online Nursing programs have started to proliferate the World Wide Web. This is a good news especially to those who are on the bottom of the waiting list of traditional Nursing schools. For the first time, Nursing students now have the option to study at their own pace without the need to quit their full-time jobs.
But just like traditional Nursing students, online learners also face unique challenges. Sadly, false advertisements and scam artists keep spreading the wrong message that Nursing programs online are just as easy as slacking off all day long. So if you’re interested and planning to take an online nurse practitioner program, it will be best to keep some of these reminders in mind:
Taking Nursing Program Online is Not a Piece of Cake
As an online student, you have the luxury of working at your own pace. This is the best option to take for those who are either single parents or just can’t afford to leave their full-time jobs for now. However, this doesn’t mean you can slack off all day and use various delaying tactics. Remember, online Nursing programs also work like your traditional school. If your instructor can’t get an output from you, that Nursing dream of yours will surely meet a sudden death.
And just so you know, online nursing schools require strict adherence to attendance, active class participation, and early submission of assignments. So if you’re not self-motivated and disciplined by nature, it’s better to leave out this option for now.
Online Nursing Programs Can Be as Good as Traditional Nursing Education
Virtual Nursing courses are not entirely restricted to online interactions. In fact, in any online LPN or RN programs, there are few instances when you need to get a hands-on learning experience. And just because most of your lessons are transmitted online doesn’t mean your future employers will look down on you. In fact, most hospitals will definitely accept you as long as you get your diploma from an accredited school.
Some Nurses Study More Efficiently Online
Of course, online Nursing program is not a one-size-fits-all solution to get a Nursing degree. But for those whose personalities don’t fit in traditional Nursing schools, a virtual classroom can offer the greatest benefits. Shy and timid students, for example, learn better when participating in online classroom discussions. Through this method, they can enjoy less distractions and learn ideas more efficiently. This is then balanced by hands-on clinical care where students are required to participate in face-to-face learning interactions.
Employers DON’T Discriminate Online Nursing Graduates
For one, earning a Nursing degree (as long as it’s from a school accredited by a reputable institution) is already an accomplishment that tells a lot about your character. In fact, employers can view you as a reliable, self-driven professional. Also, most employers are pretty familiar with how online education works. In most cases, they even sponsor some of their employees to enroll in online Nursing programs. By doing so, their Nursing staff can advance their education without leaving their current positions.
You Don’t Need to Be a Computer Geek to Succeed
In the first place, online Nursing programs are made for nurses, not programmers. This means you don’t have to crack difficult codes to study online. All you need is an average knowledge of computers and you’re all set. An orientation class and a technical support hotline are also available for those who are bit technophobic. Always remember that online Nursing programs are focused more on the contents and outcomes and less on the learner’s computer knowledge.
Online Nursing Degree is Not for Everyone
Again, virtual Nursing schools don’t offer a cure-all solution. Some students study more efficiently when online rather than staying in a traditional classroom setting. Online Nursing programs mostly teach lessons by using a textbook approach. In other words, you learn at your own pace with minimal participation of an online instructor. Some students, however, absorb more information by watching Nursing demonstrations firsthand and asking follow-up questions. If you’re one of these students, a traditional Nursing school is probably the best option for you.
Beware of Scammers
Needless to say, with high demands for nurses comes an increase of scam artists willing to exploit students. Online Nursing programs require hard work and focus to complete. Make sure that all your efforts won’t be put to waste by ensuring the school you’re planning to enroll in is duly accredited. Also, do a background check to identify the reputation of your school and whether or not you’ll be eligible to take NCLEX exam after completing the program.
Not All US States Recognize Online Nursing Programs
There are some US states that don’t put much value on online Nursing degrees. This is why you need to be proactive in asking your co-nurses, employer, and the school where you are planning to enroll. If online Nursing programs are not recognized in your area, it’s best to stick with the traditional route.
Flexibility Requires Strong Time Management Skills
One of the most appealing aspects of online nursing programs is their flexibility, especially for those balancing education with work or family commitments. However, this flexibility comes with a significant responsibility for time management. The lack of a structured classroom environment means that students must be proactive in setting schedules, adhering to deadlines, and avoiding procrastination. Success in an online nursing program is heavily dependent on the ability to effectively manage your time and stay on top of your coursework without the constant presence of an instructor.
Networking Opportunities Differ in Online Programs
Networking and building professional relationships are integral parts of nursing education, often taking a different form in online programs compared to traditional ones. While face-to-face interactions are limited, online nursing students should actively seek virtual networking opportunities. Participate in online forums, join nursing associations, attend virtual seminars, and connect with peers and faculty through social media platforms. This proactive approach can help in building a supportive network that can be invaluable for future career opportunities and professional growth.
