The authors describe how a comprehensive evaluation of a distance education program was used to strengthen and revise the program. The University of Wisconsin Collaborative Nursing Program, a collaborative effort of the five University of Wisconsin institutions that offer nursing education, allows Registered Nurses to complete a baccalaureate degree while remaining in their home communities. The program has been offered since 1996 and has used a variety of distance learning technologies.
The comprehensive evaluation focused on:
• Issues of cost and access
• Technologies and learning modalities
• Availability and quality of support services
• Impact of the program on nurses’ careers.
The paper describes the program, approach to evaluation, findings, and areas for change resulting from the study.