Abstract

This article presented a novel approach to nursing education through extended Massive Open Online Courses (xMOOCs) designed specifically for registered nurses (RNs). The framework is based on the 4D developmental model established by S. Thiagarajan and Semmel in 1974, which encompasses four phases i.e. define, design, develop and disseminate. This structured model facilitates the creation of dynamic, engaging and productive online learning experiences, enhancing nurses’ professional development. xMOOCs prepare nurses with the skills necessary for lifelong learning, integrating interactive modules and multimedia tools enhanced by adaptive learning technology. This approach contributes to quality patient care by developing the competencies of nursing. xMOOCs include interactive learning modules, case studies and simulations, providing nurses with practical experiential learning in a virtual environment. These courses foster active learning and improve critical thinking and decision-making skills that are essential in healthcare. Furthermore, xMOOCs address the needs of nursing professionals by offering customized learning pathways, enabling learners to focus on areas for improvement. This adaptability allows nurses to balance their professional responsibilities with further education. In summary, xMOOCs represent a significant advancement in nursing education, equipping RNs with accessible, scalable, and flexible learning opportunities that enhance professional development and, consequently, patient outcomes.

Notes

Original Citation: Aung, K. T., & Razak, R. A. (2025). Enhancing Nurse Empowerment Through Dynamic xMOOCs using the 4D Developmental Model. Medicine and Health, 20(2), 855–862. https://doi.org/10.17576/MH.2025.2002.36

Author Details

Dr. Khin Thandar Aung is a highly respected academic specialising in e-learning instructional design. She currently serves as a nursing lecturer in the Critical Care Nursing Department at the Faculty of Nursing, International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM). Dr. Khin is dedicated to sharing knowledge and shaping the next generation of healthcare professionals, with a specific focus on critical care. Throughout her illustrious research career, she has published over 45 works, including books and book chapters, which have received over 200 citations. She has an impressive h-index of 8. Additionally, Dr. Khin actively contributes to the academic community as an editorial board member and reviewer for prestigious journals, demonstrating her unwavering commitment to advancing nursing education and scholarly publishing.

Sigma Membership

Non-member

Type

Article

Format Type

Text-based Document

Study Design/Type

Other

Research Approach

Other

Keywords:

4D Developmental Model, Nurse Empowerment, Professional Development, xMOOC

Creative Commons License

Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License

Publisher

Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia

Version

Publisher's Version

Rights Holder

This article was original published by the Medicine and Health journal and is reposted in this repository according to the Creative Commons Attribution-Non-Commercial License 4.0. The authors retain all original copyright.

Review Type

External Review: Previously Published Material

Acquisition

Indexed Previously Published Material (Per Creative Commons License)

Full Text of Presentation

wf_yes

Download
Click on the above link to access the article.

Share

COinS