E-learning benefits nurse education and helps shape students' professional identity

E-learning or online learning is used increasingly in healthcare professionals’ education. There is no single agreed definition of e-learning, but it generally refers to internet based forms of learning, rather than face to face interaction and where traditional methods of learning are supported by online resources. It can take a variety of forms and there are various reasons for using it (see Background box). This article explores whether e-learning can bring unique aspects to nurses’ educational experience and, in particular, whether it can shape professional identity in the same way as more “traditional” forms of learning.