|
 |
The Pros and Cons of Nursing CEUs Online |
|
What nursing CEUs online entail
Different online courses have different expectations. Generally, though, in an online
class you'll need to do any reading assignments, which may include written lectures.
There may be videos to watch online, and discussion questions on a message board to
participate in. It's likely you'll also have written assignments to turn in, as well
as normal tests and exams as part of the course. Some online courses require some
time on campus, but it varies. You may only need to be on campus for the final exam,
or you may need to be on campus for once-monthly meetings. This depends on the individual
course and professor.
The pros of nursing CEUs online
The biggest positive that comes with online coursework is the flexibility it offers.
Instead of meeting for an hour three times a week, you can do your reading and participation
when it fits into your schedule. For nurses who often work unusual hours, this can be a
big draw. You don't have to worry about fitting your schedule around a class. Instead,
you can fit the class around your schedule.
Some people may see a pro of online courses in that they function more like an independent
study course. Since you do the reading on your own, and may even get the lectures in written
form, the learning is on you rather than the professor and the collective of the other
students. Many people prefer to learn this way, so an online course is a good option
for them.
Another benefit is that nursing CEUs online often give students a more one-on-one
feel with the professor. Unlike in a classroom setting where there are other students
who ask questions and give feedback within the class period, online courses allow you
to interact with the professor individually and get individual responses. This can make
the class seem more personal, even if it isn't face-to-face.
The cons of nursing CEUs online
There are drawbacks to taking online courses. One con is that, though they are flexible,
they are more like independent study courses. You are responsible for staying on top
of all the work, and without a physical classroom setting, it may be easier to let
things slide or miss deadlines.
One con of online courses for many people is the lack of student interaction. By
having discussions about the class material in person, students can gain knowledge
from other students' opinions and perspectives, as well as raise and answer questions
that come from those discussions. Since online courses don't have the same discussions
and interactions, there isn't the benefit of student feedback.
There are positive and negative impacts of online courses in any field, and nursing
CEUs online is no exception. If you're considering doing your continuing education
work online, it's important to think about all aspects of the online courses, good
and bad, and decide if it's the best option for you and for your learning style.
Would an online course provide you the flexibility you need to learn? Or would you
find yourself struggling with the material in the absence of student discussion in
person? Only you know what's best for you, what's best for your learning style, and
what's best for your nursing career.
|
|
