The FCCAsm is a computer-delivered assessment developed by faculty in response to a perceived need for additional methods of assessing clinical competence. The FCCA consists of three simulated clinical assessments that allow students to demonstrate competencies related to the clinical application of the nursing process. The competencies include head-to-toe assessment, managing multiple patients, and collaborating with intra/interdisciplinary health care teams. The FCCA is intended to assist students in demonstrating National League of Nursing (NLN) competencies for graduates of Associate Degree (AD) nursing programs.
To support the new assessment format, three interactive and self-paced online tutorials were developed to introduce the student to the FCCA computer environment and provide an interactive hands-on tour of each simulated clinical assessment.
The online tutorials consist of text and photo based directions on how to use the functions and navigate through the simulation environment. It provides students with self assessments and interactive learning activities. The tutorials allow the student the opportunity to learn and practice skills needed for successful completion of the assessments. The objectives of the FCCA tutorials are to provide the students with a description of the functions, an explanation of the structure and process, and activities to demonstrate competence and time management for each section of the assessments.
The FCCA tutorials will serve as an aid in preparing students for successful transition to simulated environment and completion of the assessments. Student participation in these tutorials is strongly encouraged by faculty, but is not mandated. The tutorials will be available free of charge to students who are registered for the FCCA. They will be available through Excelsior College’s Learning Management System.
Through these tutorials we provide a mechanism for students to:
- use portals that they are familiar with to access the tutorials
- become familiar with computer skills needed to complete the assessments. This is accomplished through practicing a variety of activities such as accessing the Learning Management System, downloading various resources, engaging in learning activities, contacting technical support in response to error messages, and navigating through the practice simulated clinical assessments
- be confident and competent using the current learning management system and the components of the simulated clinical assessments through clear-cut explanations and detailed instructions
- connect with faculty while using the tutorials through an automated “Have a Question” feature that connects to a familiar communication resource
- practice in the same computer environment in which this high stakes exam is administered.
Access is enhanced due to the student being able to have an anytime, anywhere learning experience through an asynchronous environment.
