Teaching strategies for theory content in an outcomes- and problem-based nursing education programme

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to explore the extent to which teaching strategies for theory content were utilised by nurse educators at a nursing college in Gauteng to determine whether these strategies complied with an outcomes- and problem-based nursing education programme and, if problems were identified, to make suggestions with regard to the appropriate teaching strategies. The aim of the study was to investigate what teaching strategies nurse educators utilised at a nursing college in Gauteng where an outcomes-based (OBE) and problem-based (PBL) nursing education programme was implemented. Teaching strategies used in the OBE approach are different from the traditional approach and nurse educators must master facilitation skills and guide learning of nursing students towards the attainment of outcomes, including critical cross-field outcomes such as problem-solving skills and critical thinking skills. Critical cross-field outcomes are essential life skills that learners should possess by the end of a specific course. A quantitative, non-experimental descriptive survey was used to explore the extent to which teaching strategies for theory content utilised by nurse educators at a nursing college in Gauteng, fit within an OBE and PBL nursing curriculum. Data from the study showed that educational facilities not accessible to students, were also not available to the students. These included the following: <li>Computer lab</li> <li>Internet</li> <li>Video conferences</li> <li>Teaching CD discs</li> It was also evident from the data collected that the respondents felt that library facilities were only available at another institution. From the literature studied on OBE and PBL, it became clear that, for the successful implementation thereof, students require access to computers and the Internet and these facilities should be made available to students to encourage and enhance self-directed learning, as it is an important component of PBL. The data collected clearly revealed that formal lectures were still very much utilised by nurse educators as a teaching strategy. This is a matter of great concern since formal lectures are of less importance in an OBE approach to learning. The data also indicated that nurse educators did not utilise research articles, which is again an essential part of OBE and PBL. On the other hand, the data were reassuring as it indicated that nurse educators utilised group discussions, small group activities and self-directed learning - all teaching strategies essential for OBE and PBL. Nurse educators indicated that a lack of training and in-service training were reasons why they felt only moderately competent in utilising OBE and PBL teaching strategies. Some also felt only moderately competent due to the lack of facilities, resources and support. Certain teaching strategies, such as PBL strategies, enhance critical thinking skills and assist in developing the learner’s decision-making skills. Therefore, it is important for nurse educators to make use of OBE and PBL teaching methods when facilitating learning. The South African Nursing Council [(SANC) 1993] states that “the purpose of nursing education is to develop the learner on a personal and professional level to become an independent, knowledgeable, safe practitioner with analytical and critical thinking skills”. Copyright