Best Practices in Blended Learning: Snapshots from a Hybrid Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Program
Abstract: Blended learning strategies integrate the unique characteristics of online and face-to-face teaching environments with a goal of optimizing learning experiences and outcomes. Blended learning holds particular promise for undergraduate nursing education, which integrates dense didactic content with hands-on skills development. This case study reports preliminary outcomes of a project to transition a face-to-face Bachelor of Science in Nursing program to a blended learning format, with a focus on best-practice teaching strategies that use mixed modalities in a complementary fashion to move students toward the achievement of complex learning objectives. Student and faculty perceptions related to the effectiveness of these strategies highlight the benefits of combining independent/asynchronous and social/synchronous learning experiences.