Revolutionizing Nursing Education: Flexible, Inclusive, and High-Tech

About the Episode: 

In this episode, Dustin Ramsdell sits down with Dr. Raye Mahlberg, Assistant Vice President for Learner Experience at Nightingale College, to discuss the innovative ways the institution is transforming nursing education. From using augmented and virtual reality to providing flexible, fully online programs, Nightingale College is making nursing education more accessible, particularly in underserved rural areas. Dr. Mahlberg shares insights on how these strategies are helping to address the nursing shortage and improving healthcare outcomes in communities across the country.

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Key Takeaways

• Expanding Access to Nursing Education: Nightingale College’s fully online nursing programs are breaking down geographic barriers, allowing students in rural and underserved areas to pursue nursing careers without relocating.
• Leveraging Augmented and Virtual Reality: By utilizing AR and VR in simulation labs, students are able to develop practical skills remotely, providing more flexibility and greater access to clinical training.
• Rethinking Admissions and Support: Nightingale takes an innovative approach by offering foundational learning programs, enabling students who may not meet traditional requirements to build the skills they need for nursing school success.

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Episode Summary

Addressing the Nursing Shortage Through Digital Innovation

Nightingale College, founded in 2010, focuses on increasing access to nursing education through fully online programs. As Dr. Mahlberg explains, this is particularly important in rural and underserved communities where access to healthcare professionals and educational opportunities is limited. Nightingale’s model allows students to complete the majority of their coursework online, supplemented by in-person clinical experiences that are coordinated locally. This flexibility enables students to pursue nursing degrees without needing to uproot their lives or relocate, significantly broadening the reach of nursing education.

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Cutting-Edge Technology: AR and VR in Nursing Education

A key aspect of Nightingale’s approach is the use of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) for simulations. These tools allow nursing students to practice essential skills in a virtual environment, giving them hands-on experience before they enter clinical settings. The use of AR and VR also enables Nightingale to scale its programs and provide training to large numbers of students without the space limitations of traditional on-ground simulation labs. This technology helps prepare students for real-world scenarios in a flexible and efficient way.

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Rethinking Admissions and Providing Holistic Support

Nightingale College doesn’t just focus on who students are when they enter but who they can become. By offering a foundational learning program for students who may not meet traditional entrance criteria, the institution provides a path for students to build the academic skills they need to succeed. Additionally, Nightingale offers a range of support services, including dedicated learner success strategists, writing centers, and math labs. This holistic approach ensures that students receive the help they need both academically and personally to graduate and thrive in their nursing careers.

For more insights into how Nightingale College is transforming nursing education and solving real-world healthcare challenges, listen to the full episode and explore other content from the Enrollify podcast network. Be sure to subscribe for more engaging conversations about digital transformation in higher education!

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About the Show: The Higher Ed Geek Podcast explores the impact of edtech on the student experience by speaking with diverse leaders from institutions, companies, and nonprofit organizations. Each week we aim to provide an engaging, fun, and relevant dose of professional development that honors the wide range of work happening all across the higher ed ecosystem. Come geek out with us! The Higher Ed Geek Podcast is hosted by Dustin Ramsdell and is a proud member of the Enrollify Podcast Network.

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Connect With Our Host:
Dustin Ramsdell‍

https://twitter.com/HigherEd_Geek

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About The Enrollify Podcast Network:
The Higher Ed Geek is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!  

Some of our favorites include Generation AI and  I Wanna Work There. 

Enrollify is produced by Element451 — the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.

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