Development of the Graduate School Bootcamp

Developing future leaders in nursing is dependent on encouraging experienced and skilled clinicians from diverse backgrounds to take advantage of graduate educational opportunities. However, enrolling in a doctoral program can be challenging for students if they have spent many years away from the academic environment. Prospective students may feel intimidated by advances in computer technology, uncertain about using library resources, and doubtful of their writing abilities. They may have difficulty remembering basic research terminology, as several years may have passed since taking a basic research course. By providing a review of the basic concepts, skills, and technology required for graduate study, doctoral programs can ease students’ transition into graduate school.  To deal with these issues The University Doctor of Nursing Practice Program has designed a program called “Graduate School Boot Camp” which includes a series of on-line learning modules that provide a refresher for graduate coursework. Five interactive, multimedia learning modules were developed in the following topic areas: learning strategies and time management, academic writing, managing technology challenges, basic research concepts, and using library resources. The self-paced, online modules are available for students prior to beginning their course work and throughout their enrollment in the doctoral program. Students may take a pre-test and post-test which was developed to assess knowledge of each topic area.  The engaging and interactive modules have been developed around a fitness oriented theme.  The modules are called: Warming Up to Graduate School, Tech-Savvy: Tools for the Trek (Mountain Climbing Theme), Academic Writing (Jogging Theme), Cycling for Sources & Success (Biking Theme) and Diving into Research (Swimming Theme). This poster session will provide participants with an opportunity to interact with the online modules and learn about the design and development process.