Acceptance of Online Classes among Nursing Students
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.56974/pmjn.949Keywords:
E-learning acceptance, nursing students, online learning, pandemicAbstract
Introduction: Online learning emerged as an essential alternative for traditional classroom education to ensure continuity of educational activities during the COVID-19 pandemic. Its overall effectiveness is closely related to students’ acceptance of this modality. Despite its growing use, the extent to which nursing students accept online learning remains insufficiently examined. This study therefore aims to assess the acceptance of online learning among nursing students.
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 246 nursing students of Kathmandu using convenience sampling technique. An online survey tool comprising of five-point Likert scale was used to collect the data. The scale assessed perceived usefulness, perceived ease, and behavioral intention of nursing students toward online learning. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25, employing descriptive and inferential statistics to determine acceptance levels and associated factors.
Results: Overall, 59.8% of students exhibited a high level of acceptance of online learning, while 40.2% reported lower acceptance. Only 26.4% agreed that online classes facilitated communication. Regarding ease of use, 42% felt they received adequate institutional support. Behavioral intention toward online learning was moderate, with 30.5% expressing satisfaction and 34.6% willing to recommend online classes. Institutional affiliation significantly influenced acceptance, with students from government institutions reporting higher acceptance (p = 0.005). However, sex, age, education level, and prior online experience did not show significant associations (p > 0.05).
Conclusion: Although more than half of the nursing students showed high level of acceptance of online learning, significant challenges such as inadequate communication and institutional support were noted. Strengthening digital infrastructure and providing structured institutional support could enhance the effectiveness and acceptance of online education among nursing students.
