Considerations for Appropriateness of Virtual Learning in the Postpandemic Environment

Abstract

Background: During the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, health professions educators who traditionally used a face-to-face mode to deliver education transitioned to virtual formats. With the widespread use of vaccines, restrictions on social distancing requirements have waned. Some educators have reverted to a face-to-face modality, whereas others have maintained a virtual modality. Method: A framework was developed to evaluate the suitability of curricular elements to be presented in a virtual platform to guide educators in modality decision making. Results: Learner motivation, context and content compatibility, social learning community requirements, and technological infrastructure should be considered when planning future curricula delivery. Conclusion: The virtual learning environment must be compatible with content and context. Appropriate technology infrastructure, which includes institutional support, virtual learning platform, and technological support, also must be in place. Hybrid modalities that divide content into face-to-face and virtual components can be used to ease demands on logistics and technology infrastructure limitations. [ J Nurs Educ . 2022;61(9):503–509.]