By Susan Smith Nash, Ph.D.
You may have decided that the most effective way to get a nursing degree is to take courses online. However, the situation may not be quite as positive as you had hoped. You aren't sure how or where to begin, and the isolation you may be feeling could be quite daunting. How can you get started? How to succeed? Here are a few steps to help you get on track.
Getting Started:
1. Select a degree plan that has a real future
Examples: Master of Science in Nurse Midwifery
Master of Science in Women's Health
2. Examine the tracks, certificates, and areas of interest and make sure they align with your interests
One of the best ways to demotivate yourself is to select a degree plan that does not align with your interests or with your long-range plans.
3. Plan your curriculum very carefully; map out timelines and timetables
Once you select a major and a track, be sure to find out what you'll be expected to take, and how each of the courses shows up in terms of difficulty. Gain a clear idea of what your requirements are, and the proper sequence of courses. Make sure that your plan makes sense. Budget money as well as time.
Working Out the Details, Assuring Success:
4. Work with your advisor, take courses in proper sequence
Although it may be tempting to take too many courses, and/or to take them in the sequence that seems to interest you, be sure to follow the proper sequence of courses and to take the prerequisites. Don't try to "beat the system."
5. Invest in technology: equipment and connectivity
You may be relying on your work computer and Internet connection for your online courses. Although you may think you're saving money, in the long run, you're running the risk of not having the connection, computer, or resources to do the things you need to do with your course work. Be sure to get a good, fast computer, and to invest in a reliable Internet connection/connectivity plan.
Effective Study Habits
6. Find study partners/study buddies
Online courses can make you feel isolated, and you may feel frustrated when you are not able to obtain the information you need when you need it. Although you can contact your professor, even your professor may not have the student-centered information or perspective that you need. Be sure to take advantage of all the virtual student lounges and meeting places that are out there. In your courses, spend time in the discussion board areas and forums. Share practice exam ideas, and participate freely and openly with peer review activities and collaborations.
7. If clinicals are required, talk to those who have gone before
Clinicals are vitally important, not only for your course work and exams, but for obtaining licensing and certification. One way to make sure that you understand what will be required of you is to talk to others who have experienced the same thing.
8. Find preceptors who will work as mentors
In theory, a good preceptor is a good mentor. In reality, nurses and nurse educators are very busy, and they may not have the time that you need to learn the things you must. So, choose your preceptor very carefully, and make sure that they have the time and the desire to work with you as a guide, mentor, and trusted advocate.
Web-Based Supplemental Activities
9. Textbook - additional activities
Many of the textbooks have supplemental Web sites, quizzes, flash cards, video, audio, and even simulations and virtual worlds. Use all that you can, but do not get sidetracked by distractions. Keep focused, and practice with good sample tests.
10. Web 2.0 techniques to stay in touch (text-message, instant message, share feeds e.g. video/audio)
Be sure to avail yourself of as many ways to connect to people as possible.
Related pages:
"Mini-Guide" to Online Nursing Degrees