Nursing Education History

Nursing education history was initiated in the late 1800s when the American Society of Superintendents of Training Schools for Nurses began. It was organized for the purpose of providing and maintaining a universal standard for nursing. The National League for Nursing Education took over the responsibility more than 100 years ago to make certain education for nurses was standard by introducing curriculum for all schools of nursing.

In 1952, the NLNE joined the ACSN (Association for Collegiate Schools of Nursing) to form the NLN (National League for Nursing). Since that time, it has been responsible for the accreditation of nursing programs. In the late 1990s, the NLNAC (National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission) was established to take the full responsibility for accreditation. It remains accountable to the NLN.

Trends of Nursing Education History

The onset of the Internet offers options for distance education via video conferences and interactive seminars. This has opened the door of opportunity for nursing education to continue past the college years. Many nurses are advancing to a higher degree while maintaining a full-time job and raising a family. Nursing education is available from accredited schools of nursing from around the world.

The trend in nursing education indicates a change in teaching methodology and clinical experiences. More flexibility in clinical and laboratory scheduling is making the study more accessible to busy students. The nursing shortage has forced more learning options to be presented including the use of preceptors and distance education. Nursing education is taking great strides to stay on board with the latest technology to provide relative learning opportunities.