Evaluation of an Online Orientation Program for New Healthcare Employees

Abstract

Online learning is one of the newest efforts of mainstream healthcare education. It has been cited as providing both an efficient and effective alternative learning medium. This study explored the acceptance of an online orientation program by new healthcare employees and identified several critical factors affecting online learning outcomes. The study applied triangulation methods including surveys, interviews, and test scores. Data were captured from 154 questionnaires (with a response rate of 78.2%) with related test scores and 13 participant interviews. The results showed that new healthcare employees were positive toward the computer-based learning program. "Perceived ease of use" and "perceived usefulness" were the major variables predicting technology acceptance, whereas "learner satisfaction" and "continued intention to use" were the major indices for the learning outcomes. Test scores, however, did not reveal any statistical impact. Additionally, human-computer interaction, instant feedback, and program content were commented on as factors affecting learning outcomes. Therefore, online learning is suitable for new healthcare employees, both in the orientation stage and as a follow-up learning method. The results of this study can help support the development of educational technology online programs.

Nurses’ Perceptions of e-Portfolio Use for On-the-Job Training in Taiwan

“…15 These findings showed that satisfying user requirements is a key factor in the success of system use and that users should participate in the design process to improve system development to enhance their work productivity. 16,17 Nurses' ability to search for information has been correlated with their clinical competency, and e-portfolios support this by integrating in-service education, clinical care systems, and clinical nursing course modules. This type of e-portfolio also serves the purpose of maintaining course records and providing a reference that can be accessed by prospective employers.…”

Nurses' hospital orientation and future research challenges: an integrative review

“…In contrast, Shih et al. () established that new healthcare employees were positive towards the online learning programme. However, online methods must be developed in such a way that they provide a personalized learning experience (Shih et al.…”

“…; Shih et al. ) and prepares new employees for their role as staff (Mayer & Mayer ). At the unit level, orientation reflects the support and skills that RNs will need to meet the expectations of their tasks (Carcich & Rafti ).…”

“…In a study by Shih et al. () hospital orientation referred to the formal programmes that promote adaptation to the new work environment, reduce work anxiety and facilitate diverse learning. Furthermore, Friedman et al.…”

“…One investigated experienced RNs' satisfaction with diverse learning methods (Carcich & Rafti ), while another study examined how new employees adopted an online orientation programme (Shih et al. ).…”