I am always asked what the best format is for nursing continuing education and professional development, and my answer most often is, “it depends…” The best format for nursing continuing education depends on various factors, including the preferences of the nurses, the content being covered, and the learning objectives. Here are some proven effective formats for Correctional Nursing continuing education.
Online Courses
Online courses offer flexibility and convenience for nurses who may have busy schedules or limited access to in-person training. These courses can include multimedia presentations, interactive modules, quizzes, and discussion forums. They allow nurses to learn at their own pace and access materials from anywhere with an internet connection. The Correctional Nurse Educator now has 65 classes specifically for nurses working in corrections.
Webinars
Webinars are live or recorded presentations delivered over the internet, typically focused on specific topics or areas of interest. They allow nurses to engage with subject matter experts, ask questions in real-time, and participate in discussions. Webinars can be a valuable format for covering emerging trends, new research findings, or updates in clinical practice. The American Correctional Nurses Association offers accredited webinars that includes the ability to see the recorded webinar “On Demand.”
WORKSHOPS AND SEMINARS
Workshops and seminars provide hands-on learning experiences and opportunities for skill development. These sessions are often conducted in-person and may include demonstrations, case studies, group activities, and simulations. Workshops and seminars are ideal for covering complex topics or procedures that require interactive learning.
Conference Attendance
Correctional Health conferences, like those offered by the National Commission on Correctional Health Care and the American Correctional Association and professional nursing conferences offer a comprehensive learning experience, bringing together professionals from various specialties and disciplines. Conferences feature keynote presentations, breakout sessions, poster presentations, and networking opportunities. Attending conferences allows nurses to stay updated on the latest advancements in nursing practice, research, and technology and meet other correctional nurses.
Self-Study
Self-study materials, such as textbooks, journals, articles, and practice guidelines, provide nurses with the flexibility to learn independently. These resources allow nurses to explore topics of interest at their own pace and refer back to information as needed. Self-study materials are valuable for nurses seeking to deepen their understanding of specific subjects or prepare for certification exams. If correctional nurses decide that this is the best choice for them, it is important that they first develop a plan so that progress can be tracked.
Mentorship and Preceptorship Programs
Mentorship and preceptorship programs pair experienced nurses with less experienced colleagues to provide guidance, support, and professional development opportunities. These programs foster a culture of continuous learning and knowledge sharing within correctional healthcare organizations.
By offering a variety of formats for nursing continuing education, organizations can accommodate the diverse learning needs and preferences of nurses, ensuring they have access to high-quality educational opportunities that support their professional growth and development.
In the comments section below, please share your favorite format for nursing continuing education.