Objective: This pilot study examined an innovative strategy for an RN to BSN online program, specifically focused on the required asynchronous discussion forums. The aim of the study was to compare RN to BSN students’ communication satisfaction with audio-video discussion responses versus the traditional text-based responses.Methods: Utilizing a pretest-posttest design, RN to BSN student’s communication satisfaction with traditional text-based discussion responses was measured using a 5-point Likert scale survey at the end of fall semester. Audio-video responses were the required discussion response format during the subsequent spring semester. Students’ communication satisfaction with asynchronous audio-video discussion responses was measured at the end of the spring semester. Paired t-tests and descriptive statistics were conducted.Results: Students satisfaction significantly increased with audio-video discussion responses for the extent communication was positive, accurate and free flowing. There were no statistically significant differences in students’ satisfaction between text and audio-video format related to the extent communication motivated them to meet course goals and identify with the discussion, or with the extent instructors offered guidance and were open to ideas and attention to content.Conclusions: Although limited by a small sample size and low power (N = 16 pre-test, N = 17 post-test) the findings of this study may be of interest to online nurse educators who are seeking innovative strategies to improve student satisfaction within asynchronous discussion forums. With further research, the use of audio-video discussion responses may provide an alternative to the traditional text-based responses related to communication satisfaction.

Literature suggests use of audio-video (AV) technology enhances a sense of connectedness between students in online programs. In a previous quantitative study conducted by these authors, the use of AV discussion responses revealed that social presence was negatively impacted. This descriptive study explored RN to BSN students’ experiences with AV discussion formats. Participants found value related to forming distinct impressions of others but expressed feelings of distress; they described issues with technology and time as barriers. Implications suggest that AV format is not supported for use in every discussion forum but may be of value if limited to select discussion forums.