This study tests the use of computer-assisted grading rubrics compared to other grading methods with respect to the efficiency and effectiveness of different grading processes for subjective assignments. The test was performed on a large Introduction to Business course. The students in this course were randomly assigned to four treatment groups based on the grading method. Efficiency was measured by the professor's time to grade the assignments; effectiveness was measured by a student satisfaction survey. Results suggest that the computer-assisted grading rubrics were almost 200% faster than traditional hand grading without rubrics, more than 300% faster than hand grading with rubrics, and nearly 350% faster than typing the feedback into a Learning Content Management System. Results also seemed to indicate that the use of a computer-assisted grading rubric did not negatively affect student attitudes concerning the helpfulness of their feedback, their satisfaction with the speed with which they received their feedback, or their satisfaction with the method by which they received feedback.

Even more than the general population, orthopaedic patients suffer from multiple consequences of immobility. Fortunately, most of these patients are physically able to participate in some degree of moderately intense exercise. Helping the orthopaedic patient initiate and adhere to a moderately intense exercise routine is a nursing challenge. This challenge is even more difficult because as nurses, we are often expecting our patients to make a lifestyle change that we have been unable or unwilling to make ourselves. Understanding the health-related benefits that can be derived from participation in moderately intense exercise routines and the recommended guidelines for exercise frequency and intensity is a first step toward initiating a fitness routine. Using information acquired from research, nurses can assess for specific facilitators and barriers to exercise participation. This assessment data can then be used to individualize plans for exercise that meet the fitness needs of our patients and ourselves.

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Representatives of 11 nursing organizations developed a unique consortium to produce an ongoing series of annual conferences focused on promoting professional nursing leadership among nurses in diverse practice areas including acute care, long-term care, community health, and nursing education. The consortium strategically added members and refined the format of the conferences based on participant feedback. The conferences feature a keynote speaker and practicebased breakout sessions designed to facilitate futuristic thinking among nurses. The conference is associated with a legislative roundtable to support interaction between nurses and legislators. Future expansion of the consortium will include representation of advanced practice nurses. The development of the consortium and its highly efficient methods of operation are described in this article as an example of multi-organizational collaboration to promote professional nursing leadership. Bonds have been formed between the consortium member organizations that are mutually beneficial to the members of all.

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