The decision to obtain a BSN degree can be a difficult one. After all, nurses who are practicing with an ASN or Diploma are already working in the profession of their choice. They are often working on a full-time basis and unable to attend classes. And they may not earn any more at their place of employment simply by adding a BSN to their credentials.
Hence, they are therefore not motivated to pursue further education. However, there are clear benefits to continuing one’s nursing education. One of the wonderful aspects of nursing that we have so many choices for practice. These avenues only open up once we have an advanced degree.
By getting a BSN, we find more ways to have a positive impact on the lives of others. These include increased opportunities for leadership positions or opening the door to pursuing an MSN. With an advanced degree, we can teach or lead other nurses. We can even become an advanced practice registered nurse or a nurse practitioner.
The Benefits of Online Education But of course, the question remains: how can we earn a BSN when we are pressed for time? The answer lies in online nursing education. Opportunities for learning have increased in number tremendously in recent years.
There are numerous educational institutions that provide the ASN or Diploma nurse a chance to easily obtain a BSN online, once they meet certain qualifications. Courses may be totally online or a combination of online and on-campus experiences. And programs may vary somewhat in terms of the required number of credits and courses that are required for completion.
However, there are a few truths that are consistent among them. Online Classes: Not As Easy As Thought The first truth is that online nursing education is not less difficult than traditional education.
Historically, there has been a misunderstanding around this concept. It is based on the assumption that because students don’t have to physically attend class, and can complete assignments in the comfort of their homes, that the classes are easier.
This could not be further from the truth. Participation in an online program require good time management skills. This is especially true when the student is working, taking care of family, and meeting other obligations in life.
Students are also typically required to log in and participate in the online classroom several days a week. They have to meet strict requirements upon which their grade is based. This is in addition to required tasks, such as posting on a group discussion board or the submission of formal papers that require research.
Some class requirements also include exams, Powerpoint presentations, etc. Community Spirit The second truth is that participation in the online classroom often leads to a feeling of community among the students and faculty. The content of the courses is specifically designed for an online environment to maximize the learning experience. This cannot occur without active interaction among all participants.
Unlike traditional on-campus classrooms, where there are students who demonstrate varying degrees of participation, in an online classroom everyone must be actively engaged. They need to participate in discussions with others and other activities to be successful. This leads to a sharing of insights and information that can be beneficial to all. Some students actually find faculty more accessible in an online environment. This is because of the ability to email, post questions in the classroom, or contact the faculty by phone.
Granted, each faculty member has his/her own policy for “virtual office hours” or other means of contact. But in general, one of the requirements for employment as faculty is engagement with and availability to students. As Good As “Brick and Mortar” The third truth is that an online nursing degree is typically not seen as inferior to a “brick and mortar” school by an employer.
There are many online institutions which are fully accredited. However, you should be sure to investigate whether this is the case before enrolling and investing money into one that is not. The US Secretary of Education has stated that “Accreditation of an institution or program by a recognized accrediting agency provides a reasonable assurance of quality and acceptance by employers of diplomas and degrees.” In many cases, not only are online nursing degree programs considered legitimate. Some of the most respected universities in the country offer courses online.