Date of Award
2001
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Education
Department
Programs for Higher Education
Advisor
Eileen E. Morrison
Committee Member
G. Jeremiah Ryan
Committee Member
Stan A. Hannah
Abstract
To become registered nurses (RNs), licensed practical nurses (LPNs) must repeat a significant amount of their learning experiences. This duplication results in unnecessary frustration, time, and expense for the student. The purpose of the project was to develop an LPN to RN program with plans for implementation and evaluation.
Six research questions were proposed: (1) Is the problem of duplication of learning experiences for the LPN to become an RN significant enough to support the development of a specific program? (2) How would an LPN curriculum articulate with the present RN curriculum at St. Francis? (3) What are the appropriate content elements of an LPN to RN program? (4) What is the appropriate instructional design? (5) How should the program be implemented? (6) What criteria should be used to evaluate the program?
The primary methodology used was development. Three products were produced: an LPN to RN program, an implementation plan, and an evaluation plan. The evaluation methodology was used to conduct a needs assessment and to develop the evaluation plan.
A literature review and a needs assessment was conducted. Next, the New Jersey Board of Nursing's model for program development was employed. Formative and summative committees were established to provide input on the development process and to establish content-related evidence. The program, an implementation plan, and evaluation plan were developed following established criteria. Finally, the entire plan was presented for approval to the school's faculty organization and accrediting bodies. It was anticipated that the program would allow some LPNs to obtain their RN licensure in less time and at a reduced cost.
It was concluded that the problem of duplication of learning experiences for the LPN to become an RN was significant enough to support the development of a specific program. Such a program was developed to articulate with the RN curriculum at St. Francis.
It is recommended that the School implement this program the fall semester of 2002. It is also recommended that the Faculty Organization implement the plan of evaluation. It is further recommended that studies be conducted to determine specific admission criteria that could eliminate testing requirements.