Affiliations

System Nursing Education and Professional Development

Presentation Notes

Professional Development poster presentation at Empowering Nursing Excellence: Recognizing the Value and Impact of Nurses, Advocate Health Midwest Region Nursing Research & Professional Development Conference 2023; November 15, 2023; virtual.

Abstract

Background/Information

Within a virtual Nurse Residency Program, the opportunity existed to increase engagement among nurse resident participants. Program facilitators self-reported low level of engagement citing, “difficult to get engaged,” “offer activities for conversation,” and “allow time for engagement activities.” Literature suggests participants may feel uncomfortable engaging in virtual environments. Thus, a Rewards Program was developed to encourage engagement of participants and piloted in ten Nurse Residency cohorts.

Purpose/Objective

The program's key purpose was to enhance engagement by incentivizing participants to complete activities offered throughout a 6-month Nurse Residency Program. Program activities stimulated communication, fun, and teamwork leading to positive evaluations.

Method/Evaluation

The Rewards Program, based on the Engagement Theory whose focus is on motivation as a method for involvement and learning, offered participants opportunities to earn points. Points were earned through various activities including icebreakers, well-being, communication, games, and outside opportunities. Points were accumulated and redeemed for prizes using a tech-savvy Tracker App.

Results/Findings


Fifty-five nurse residents from the pilot cohorts (43%) have actively participated in the program. Participants describe the program as, “appreciative, fun, valuable, engaging, and exciting,” “keeps us engaged in virtual learning,” and “a good way to stay engaged and rewarded.” Facilitators added, “increased engagement” and “lots of fun!” The Rewards program has continuous favorable outcomes as shown by overwhelming interest, participation, and positive evaluations. Evaluation data indicates 94% of participants strongly agree/agree nurse residents are actively engaged.

Conclusions/Implications for Practice

Positive evaluations from the pilot predict continued sustainability and growth in the program. Engagement and active participation during virtual professional development opportunities promotes interest, effective learning, and connection with learners which can be transferable to all Nurse Resident cohorts and learner groups.

Document Type

Poster

Publication Date

11-15-2023


 

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Nov 15th, 12:00 AM

Bonus time! Using a rewards program to encourage engagement in a nurse residency program

Background/Information

Within a virtual Nurse Residency Program, the opportunity existed to increase engagement among nurse resident participants. Program facilitators self-reported low level of engagement citing, “difficult to get engaged,” “offer activities for conversation,” and “allow time for engagement activities.” Literature suggests participants may feel uncomfortable engaging in virtual environments. Thus, a Rewards Program was developed to encourage engagement of participants and piloted in ten Nurse Residency cohorts.

Purpose/Objective

The program's key purpose was to enhance engagement by incentivizing participants to complete activities offered throughout a 6-month Nurse Residency Program. Program activities stimulated communication, fun, and teamwork leading to positive evaluations.

Method/Evaluation

The Rewards Program, based on the Engagement Theory whose focus is on motivation as a method for involvement and learning, offered participants opportunities to earn points. Points were earned through various activities including icebreakers, well-being, communication, games, and outside opportunities. Points were accumulated and redeemed for prizes using a tech-savvy Tracker App.

Results/Findings


Fifty-five nurse residents from the pilot cohorts (43%) have actively participated in the program. Participants describe the program as, “appreciative, fun, valuable, engaging, and exciting,” “keeps us engaged in virtual learning,” and “a good way to stay engaged and rewarded.” Facilitators added, “increased engagement” and “lots of fun!” The Rewards program has continuous favorable outcomes as shown by overwhelming interest, participation, and positive evaluations. Evaluation data indicates 94% of participants strongly agree/agree nurse residents are actively engaged.

Conclusions/Implications for Practice

Positive evaluations from the pilot predict continued sustainability and growth in the program. Engagement and active participation during virtual professional development opportunities promotes interest, effective learning, and connection with learners which can be transferable to all Nurse Resident cohorts and learner groups.

 

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