The use of the community of inquiry survey in blended learning pedagogy for a clinical skill‐based module

Aim and Objectives The primary aim of this study was to examine the effectiveness of the blended learning pedagogy in a clinical skill‐based module using the Community of Inquiry (CoI) framework. The secondary objectives were to assess the effectiveness of blended learning in improving the nursing knowledge, and students' satisfaction with this approach. Background Blended learning is increasingly adopted in education as more online resources are made available for tutors to use for the benefit of their students. That implied a reduction in the face‐to‐face contact time in replacement for online teaching, which therefore warrants a need to examine the effectiveness of blended learning approach. The application of CoI framework could evaluate the blended learning approach to assist teaching faculty with evidence‐based practices on online teaching. Design This study used the quasi‐experimental, pretest–posttest design, and results were presented according to the Transparent Reporting of Evaluations with Nonrandomised Designs (TREND) guidelines. Methods This study was conducted in a university and recruited 219 Year 1 nursing students who completed a clinical‐based module. Results The results of the CoI survey found that teaching presence scored the highest mean, followed by cognitive and social presence. The design of the blended learning was effective in enhancing students' knowledge but they only expressed a moderate level of satisfaction. Conclusions Blended learning is a feasible pedagogical strategy for a clinical skill‐based module. However, further investigation is required to explore the factors and strategies which could improve students' satisfaction. Relevance to clinical practice Blended learning has become one of the contemporary trends in education. Refining teaching strategies may meet the learning needs of today's generation and improve students' learning outcomes.