Computer mediated conferencing - A hope or hype for healthcare education in higher learning?: A review of the literature

Aims and objectives: In view of the increase use of computer mediated conferencing (CMC) by nurses with other health care professionals in health care education, this literature review provides insights into the experiences and issues surrounding the use of the technology by nursing students and their use with other health care students. It is an important initial step in designing and developing strategies in the use of CMC. This literature review also aims to structure the available research findings of needs and experiences of other health care students and students from disciplines other than health care to provide the best approximation of what nursing students will experience in diverse groups for inter-professional learning. Method: Literature review. Results: The literature review indicates a substantial amount of students' experiences and expectations in CMC. The problems thus far, are more complex than access and use of the technology, and emerged as six different, but related issues associated with technology and reflective and collaborative online learning in a constructivist learning environment. Relevance to practice: Priority needs should be central in the preparation of student in the constructivist learning environment. Concerted efforts should not be just about increasing students' technological competence, but on addressing the socio-psychological dimensions in CMC. (c) 2006 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.