Shout out to Paradise Valley Community College’s Nursing Program, which was recently named to the Nursing Schools Almanac as one of Arizona’s Best Nursing Programs in 2020. Coming in #2 Best Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN), PVCC hasn’t missed a beat since taking its classes to an online format amidst the coronavirus pandemic.
“Our students have adapted incredibly well to the change in learning style and, if there is a silver lining in all of this, it’s that we’ve been able to deliver online so many options that we were not aware of before this happened,” said Nick DeFalco, Nursing Program Director. The online format has opened up new possibilities while keeping intact the quality of our program.”
Of course, there have been some difficulties, primarily the adaptability of some students and faculty to work remotely. PVCC acted quickly, having students take an initial technology assessment to find out where the gaps were, then IT teamed up with the Library and Academic Affairs to check out laptops to students that needed one. Overall, the response has been great. Nursing students who might have been apprehensive at first about going to online learning are now praising their instructors, being supportive, and even encouraging many of the courses to remain in an online format going forward.
- “Thank you for all the information and the update! I know this change has been very difficult for everyone and appreciate all your dedication to make sure we have everything we need and remain on track to graduate.” Dustin H.
- “Thank you for going the extra mile to provide these resources to us!” Annie N.
- “Your videos are terrific! I am actually learning al ot and the ability to pause and replay is solidifying the material.” Michelle A.
While the future of on-site classes is unknown for now, DeFalco, who is a member of Dr. Paul Dale’s Covid19 task force, said they will continue to assess the situation and ask those tough questions. “It’s important to remain nimble and adaptable,” he said, while still ensuring students are getting all of the necessary resources they need to succeed.