Behind the Scenes: Developing an AI Interview App for Tomorrow’s Nurses
- Angela Lee
- Nov 6, 2024
- 2 min read
In the ever-evolving landscape of healthcare, technology plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of nursing. The Onward team is committed to supporting the next generation of nurses, particularly those navigating the challenges of entering the Canadian healthcare system as internationally educated nurses (IENs). One of our most exciting initiatives is the development of an AI-powered interview practice tool, designed to empower these dedicated professionals and help them overcome barriers to success.
Understanding the Need
Our journey began with a deep understanding of the unique needs of immigrant nurses. Our research revealed that while nursing is one of the top professions for immigrants in Canada (immigrants make up 25% of registered nurses)
https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/campaigns/immigration-matters/growing-canada-future/health.html), many IENs are overqualified for the roles they secure. This mismatch often stems from systemic barriers, such as challenges with credential recognition, language proficiency, and unfamiliarity with the Canadian job application process.
What we found was that many qualified candidates struggle to effectively showcase their skills and experiences during interviews, which leads to them being undervalued or overlooked for positions that match their qualifications. We recognized that effective interview preparation could make a significant difference in how these nurses present themselves and their qualifications, helping them bridge the gap between their skills and the job market.
Designing the Solution
Our aim was to build a platform that was not only user-friendly but also sensitive to the unique challenges faced by immigrant nurses. Our design process involved several key phases:
User Research: We conducted surveys and interviews with IENs to gather valuable insights into their challenges and pain points. This feedback was instrumental in shaping the app’s features, ensuring they directly addressed the specific needs of our target audience.
Feature Development: Based on these insights, we focused on essential features such as personalized interview questions, resume uploads, and real-time feedback. Additionally, we recognized that different learners have different needs—some may prefer to practice by typing responses, while others may benefit more from speaking aloud. Offering both text and speech response options became a key feature of the app, accommodating different learning styles and preferences.
AI Training: The heart of the Onward app lies in its AI capabilities. We’re in the process of training the AI on a diverse dataset of nursing interview questions and best practices. This ensures that the AI can provide accurate, actionable feedback that is both constructive and personalized, giving users the tools they need to refine their interview performance.
Looking Ahead
As we receive insights from user testing, we’ll be refining the designs, microinteractions, and features to address any friction points and ensure that the app is developed in a way that is easy to navigate.
Stay tuned to our updates!
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