Online/Distance Learning Nurse Assistant Training Program (NATP)
eLearning Review Unit
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use my approved, classroom-based NATP to conduct teaching in a distance-learning format during the COVID-19 declared state of emergency?
Please contact TPRU for approved, classroom-based NATP questions. For more information, please see the TPRU webpage.
If my program was granted a waiver to teach online during COVID-19, can I use the same setup to apply to ELRU for a permanent online NATP?
You may apply but because your program was not setup with eLearning requirements in mind it is unlikely that your current program will be approved without making substantial alternations to meet the requirements.
Is ELRU part of TPRU?
No. The eLearning Review Unit was established within the Aide and Technician Certification Section, separate from the Training Program Review Unit, to process Online Nurse Assistant Training Program applications. For more information, please see the TPRU webpage.
How can I contact ELRU?
You may contact the eLearning Review unit at eLearning@cdph.ca.gov or call (916) 552-9967.
Can I use TPRU application forms and submit these to ELRU?
No. There are requirements that are specific to ELRU which are not found in the TPRU forms. Please use ELRU forms from this webpage.
What are the components to a complete application packet?
A complete educational institution application is described on the Educational Institution Application Requirements page.
A complete SNF and ICF application is described on the Skilled Nursing Facility/Intermediate Care Facility Application Requirements page.
A complete Alternative NATP application is described on the Alternative NATP Application Requirements page.
A complete online Nurse Assistant Training Program Director of Staff Development (DSD) or Instructor application is described on the DSD or Educational Institution Instructor Application Requirements page.
What are the requirements for a NATP Program Director or Director of Nursing?
An online NATP program director is responsible for the entirety of the NATP. In facilities this title is "Director of nursing"(DON) and in educational institutions the title is "Registered nurse Program Director"(RNPD) or "Program Director"
The requirements for a program director are as follows:
- Position of a California Registered Nurse License.
- Two years of experience as a Registered Nurse
- Of the two years, one year of experience must be in provision of care and services in Long Term Care facilities.
The qualification requirements for Directors of Staff Development (DSD) and Instructors are not interchangeable with Program Directors (DONs and RNPDs) as DSDs/instructors do not carry the same responsibility as RNPDs/DONs. Therefore, it is not necessary to submit a CDPH 279 as this from is for DSD/Instructors only nor are the qualifications in this form used to evaluate RNPD/DON qualifications.
Can a Program Director or Director of Nursing teach an online NATP?
A Director of Nursing may not teach the program. If a Program director of an educational institution wants to teach, they have to ensure compliance with 22 CCR Ā§71828(b)(3) by having another qualified individual monitor the classes that the program director teaches.
How do I ensure faster processing of my Online NATP application?
To ensure faster processing time, please complete all information needed in the ELRU forms and submit all forms and documents and access to online learning management system to the Unit email address:
What kinds of online/distance-learning platforms can I use?
Any synchronous or asynchronous teaching method that complies with the Department requirements is acceptable.
What is the difference between synchronous vs asynchronous online programs?
Synchronous classes are live where students and instructors interact in a specific virtual place at a set time. Instructors commonly take attendance as they would in a lecture hall. These classes are conducted via a video conference or live-streamed lecture.
Asynchronous classes are self-paced and closely monitored by the NATP instructor. Students must regularly interact with the instructor to be evaluated on their understanding of each module. These classes are conducted via narrated lectures and the students complete these within a given schedule.
Both synchronous and asynchronous programs must evaluate the student's understanding of the NATP content. For asynchronous instruction, each course module must provide an exam to proceed to another module.
If I have an existing, classroom-based NATP that is approved by TPRU, can I use this program to apply for an online NATP application?
No, ELRU and TRPU are different units and have different requirements. You may have both an online and a classroom based NATP, with each having their specific Provider Identification Training Number (PITN) you may not combine the two NATPs.
Do I need to have an approved, classroom-based NATP before applying for an online NATP?
No, a classroom-based NATP in not necessary in order to apply for an online NATP.
For an online NATP, do we need to submit a new application for previously approved instructors/DSD?
Yes, all instructors/DSD, whether new or approved, who will be teaching for an online NATP need to submit a CDPH E279 application form and the required information. If previously approved, the DSD/Instructor Number must still be indicated in the application form.
You may contact the eLearning Review unit at eLearning@cdph.ca.gov or call (916) 552-9967.
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