Innovation and Effectiveness in a MSN-DNP Program Using a Quality Matters Framework

Post-master’s DNP online programs prepare APNs to become leaders in health care provision focusing on policy, finance, population-based health. The rapid transition from face-to-face educational opportunities to online programs challenges educators to offer deeper learning experience demanded by this curriculum. Course standards such as Essentials for DNP education and collegial peer review offer tools to insure quality in these courses.  However, providing meaningful learning experiences for students requires the use of innovative strategies that focus on interaction, dialogue, and discourse. Implementing these strategies become even more challenging when targeting APN participants who have had little or no experience in this learning environment. 

Quality Matters framework provides the basis for consistent course delivery in online learning environments and peer review processes.  A University developing a post Master’s DNP program for APNs working in rural areas used this framework to insure quality in graduate courses. Faculty developed course content based on course standards and instructional design staff, well versed in Quality Matters, reviewed courses, identified strengths and provided feedback. Collaboration between faculty and instructional designers was essential to the peer review insuring quality in the program.  This relationship facilitated implementation of innovations that could be evaluated through course and program evaluation providing feedback on strengths, challenges, and future directions for redesign of courses.