Learning approaches and experiences of student nurses following the introduction of eBooks into an undergraduate nursing programme in Bahrain

6^th World Nursing and Healthcare Conference

August 15-17, 2016 London, UK

Eman Fateel, Seamus Cowman, Sami Abid, Aliaa Alamoodi, Khawla Alhusain and Maryam Abdulla

RCSI-MUB Bahrain, Bahrain

Scientific Tracks Abstracts: J Nurs Care

Abstract :

Since the foundation of the School of Nursing & Midwifery at RCSI Bahrain in 2006, students� were provided with textbooks and a laptop as a part of the programme funding arrangements. We were conscious of the high level of usage of IPhones and social media among young people and we believed that this could be harnessed in learning approaches for nursing students. The 2014, entry nursing students� year 1 (N1) and year 2 (N2) were provided with eBooks as an alternative to textbooks. eBooks are consistent with our emphasis on blended, independent and flexible learning approaches. A longitudinal descriptive study with data collection through surveys and focus-group interviews was approved through the ethics committee. Our preliminary findings reflected no difference in examination results compared to previous cohorts. Overall N1 students favored eBooks when compared to N2 students who used textbooks in year 1. eBooks facilitated the accessibility of wide ranging learning materials through different platforms at any time and any place in formal and informal locations; stimulated peer-to-peer interactions and supportive learning. Difficulties reported related to the artifact of the digital technology and system unfamiliarity and highlighted the need for continuous technology support and guidance for students while using eBooks. Important patterns of eBook usage and learning were identified through technology platform records. The study will provide important educational insights into Arab nursing students� learning and studying approaches in Bahrain where no previous studies have taken place.

Biography :

Eman Fateel RN, BSN, MSc Nursing, Nursing Faculty in School of Nursing and Midwifery at RCSI-Bahrain. Her research interest is in clinical nursing and education. Prof. Seamus Cowman, PhD, MSc, PG Cert Ed, DiP N (London), RNT, RGN, RPN, FFNMRCSI, FAAN, Head of School of Nursing & Midwifery at RCSI-Bahrain. Seamus completed his academic studies at University of London, University of Surrey and in completing his PhD at Dublin City University he became the first nurse to obtain a PhD from an Irish University. He is a Fellow of the Faculty of nursing and Midwifery RCSI, and in Nov 2010 he was the first nurse from Ireland to be inaugurated as a Fellow of the American Academy of Nursing. Prof Cowman’s has 160 publications – journal and books and has obtained over €3.5 million in research funding.

Email: eefateel@rcsi-mub.com