DISTANCE LEARNING - ISSUES AND APPLICATIONS FOR NONTRADITIONAL PROGRAMS

Distance learning is closing the gap between the desire for and the availability of RN-BSN programs in rural areas. Though distance learning has been around for a long time in other parts of the world, it is only with recent advances in technology that distance education programs offering degrees have proliferated in the United States. Some of the pertinent issues pertaining to distance education are presented. Examples drawn from the experience of the University of New Mexico's nursing program are presented as applications. Although colleges of nursing and pharmacy offer distinctly different educational curricula, they hold the commonality of offering professional health programs in rapidly changing arenas of health care and educational technologies.