The Sudden Transition of a Health Policy Course to Virtual Learning during COVID-19: Identifying and Implementing Strategies for Successful Learning

The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted many university courses’ planned teaching approaches, but faculty and students acclimated so that learning did not end. Nursing education must incorporate a curriculum that includes developing and analyzing policy and enhancing equitable and safe care. To serve as a case exemplar modeling the importance of public health policy development, analysis, and advocacy. A policy matrix was introduced to guide the development and organization of a well-constructed argument for a chosen public health issue. Online class time included a lecture followed by an active working period for students and faculty. This exemplar assignment prepared students to think, read, research, write critically, and offer and receive feedback. The course objectives were achieved, and consistent feedback and support maintained the learning process. During the COVID-19 pandemic, students had an amplified sensitivity to learning more about policy. Faculty aided learning by presenting students with the methodology to support their nursing and health policy skills and adapting in-person curriculum to synchronous and asynchronous delivery.