Page 283 - International Perspectives on Effective Teaching and Learning in Digital Education

Exploring Student Perspectives on E-Learning in Nursing Education

Students also addressed the difficulties they encountered with the com-
munication/e-learning platforms, such as Zoom and Microsoft Teams. Some
students faced frequent system crashes and were sometimes unfamiliar with
the platforms, which led to additional stress and time lost during lectures.
One participant shared:

The system went down a lot. We had times when the wrong links were
given, and we’d be waiting with no idea what happened [FG]

Others expressed frustration with the lack of training provided for using
these platforms, which often complicated their learning experience.

Effect on Practical Skills and Learning Outcomes
The theme illustrates both the limitations and adjustments that nursing stu-
dents experience with e-learning in terms of skill development and learning
outcomes. While digital platforms offer certain advantages, the lack of hands-
on practice remains a significant barrier to students feeling fully prepared for
clinical roles.
Many students expressed frustration with the lack of real-world applica-
tion in the online setting, as practical nursing skills are best learned through
in-person experiences. For instance, one participant shared:
It’s hard to apply theoretical knowledge when you don’t get the chance to
practice it in a real environment. [FG]
E-learning often left students feeling under-confident in their skills, which
in some cases points to the gap between theoretical knowledge and practi-
cal competence, exacerbated by the online format. One student noted:

I don’t feel ready to meet the professional standards required in clinical
settings. I feel like I’m missing critical hands-on experiences. [FG1]
Many students appreciated learning through online assessments and digital
simulations, which helped them become more proficient in navigating new
learning technologies. Some also adapted very quickly. One student mentioned:
While I miss in-person training, I’ve become more comfortable with digital
tools that I know will be part of my career. [FG3]

This adaptation reflects a form of resilience and a willingness to engage
with digital learning tools despite the challenges.

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