RN students' satisfaction with clinical teaching in a distance education program.

This study examined student satisfaction with clinical teaching and student-perceived difficulties in three introductory nursing courses offered by distance education. The sample consisted of 41 registered nurse respondents enrolled in a baccalaureate nursing program. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected by mailed questionnaire. The results indicate that the degree of satisfaction with the clinical teacher role was high and that unfamiliarity with the clinical settings and roles were perceived as difficulties. As well, the qualitative data suggest that RN learners need gradual exposure to self-directed learning to acquire these skills.