Evaluation of an educational technology regarding clinical evaluation of preterm newborns

To evaluate, from the students' point of view, educational software developed as a tool to help teachers and students in neonatal nursing. The study evaluates the contents and simulations addressed in the software. A total of 57 undergraduate nursing students affiliated with five Brazilian public colleges participated. The general assessment of the software was highly satisfactory: 82.4% of the sample characterized the software as quite effective as a teaching tool. Most components were assessed as good or very good. The participants' suggestions and comments are being considered in the improvement and adaptation of the new software version. The results show that the product is adequate for use in neonatal nursing courses and nursing training on the physical examination techniques and semiology of preterm newborns, falling within the pedagogical framework of active methods.