Transforming Healthcare AI Education Through Micro-Learning: A Novel Partnership Model for Nursing Workforce Development

Healthcare professionals face an urgent need for AI literacy as artificial intelligence technologies rapidly transform clinical practice, yet nursing-specific educational resources remain scarce. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of an innovative micro-learning AI education program developed through an academic-industry partnership. We implemented 11 micro-courses (4-5 hours each) across foundational, application, and advanced competency levels, with nursing-specific content addressing professional scope and leadership opportunities. The program was delivered through Chamberlain University Center for Faculty Excellence and Walden University School of Lifelong Learning. We analyzed enrollment data, learning outcomes, and satisfaction scores from 478 students and faculty with 612 course completions. Among 612 course completions, registered nurses comprised 49% of participants. Students demonstrated significant knowledge gains (Cohens d = 0.65, p < 0.001) with high satisfaction scores (mean = 4.58/5.0). Faculty participants showed exceptional outcomes (satisfaction mean = 4.67/5.0) with 99% expressing commitment to applying learning. Content relevance scored highest across all measures (4.61-4.71), indicating integration of academic rigor with practical applicability. This micro-learning approach addresses critical gaps in healthcare AI education through scalable, nursing-specific curriculum. The partnership model bridges academic expertise with industry relevance, providing a replicable framework for systematic workforce preparation in AI-enhanced healthcare delivery.