Abstract
BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic has not researched inquiry methods much, other than that it has never been combined with podcast media to better refine students' abilities. The purpose of this study was to determine student satisfaction with basic nursing theory and practice courses taught using the Community of Inquiry framework using podcast media. METHODS: This evaluation was done at a university using a validated Community of Inquiry survey (n = 54) and interviews (n = 20). A convenience sample of 54 graduate students enrolled in a core research field comprised the study participants. The quantitative data were analyzed descriptively and the qualitative data were thematically coded. RESULTS: Five major themes emerged: It was a new experience, and fun to learn; it is challenging to learn; it is an ongoing enthusiasm; it is well known, and useful to others. Overall, student satisfaction was high, especially in the cognitive presence (critical thinking) and instructor presence (mostly related to pedagogy) categories. Student perspectives on developing "social presence" vary, but the framework is generally effective for stimulating inquiry and fostering a sense of community. Students can gain thorough knowledge of the learning goals they wish to pursue. CONCLUSION: Formation of an "investigation community" through the use of the media of podcasts. This framework has significant potential for use in the teaching of nursing research subjects; satisfaction is high when students report learning not only theory and practice, but also how to "make" character changes through the formation of professional and intellectual communities.