Evaluation of Teaching Methods In Nursing Education Selection of Teaching Methods in Nursing Education
The selection of teaching methods in nursing education requires careful planning and alignment with several key factors: behavioral objectives, learner characteristics, and available resources, such as time, budget, space, and materials. The educator’s expertise, level of comfort with the method, and experience on the novice-to-expert continuum also play a significant role in choosing the most appropriate method.
Educators may be at varying stages of competency when it comes to teaching skills. For instance, an educator skilled in leading small group discussions may be unfamiliar with methods like educational games. Similarly, expert nurses may not have extensive experience with teaching methods despite being highly competent clinicians. Teaching is a skill that can be honed through formal education, continuing education programs, and mentoring from experienced educators.
Often, teaching methods are chosen based on the educator’s comfort with specific approaches, rather than considering the learners’ needs or educational goals. There is no single “correct” teaching method; the ideal approach depends on variables such as the audience, content, and available resources. The learner’s needs, rather than the educator’s preferences, should guide the selection of teaching methods.
For many years, it was believed that teaching methods should match the learning styles of students. However, recent research (Glenn, 2009; Rogowsky, Calhoun, & Tallal, 2015) suggests no substantial evidence that matching teaching methods to learning styles improves learning outcomes. Instead, educators should focus on the content and vary their teaching methods to include hands-on work, group discussions, and lectures as appropriate for the subject matter.
Educators at the novice level should start with familiar content to build confidence in the teaching process. Through self-reflection and feedback from learners and peers, educators can assess whether the selected teaching methods effectively achieve the objectives and meet learner expectations.
Factors Influencing the Selection of Teaching Methods
- Behavioral Objectives: Teaching methods should align with the specific behavioral objectives for learners. Methods should be chosen based on whether the goal is to improve cognitive, psychomotor, or affective learning.
- Learner Characteristics: An assessment of learner readiness, learning styles, and needs is crucial for selecting an appropriate method. While some learners benefit from hands-on learning, others may prefer lecture-based instruction or interactive group discussions.
- Resources Available: Time, space, financial support, and learning materials influence method selection. Some methods may be limited by resource constraints, such as high-tech simulation or team-based learning, which may require specialized equipment and space.
- Educator Expertise: The educator’s level of comfort and experience with specific teaching methods will affect the choice of methods. Confidence in the subject matter and teaching strategy is essential for effective delivery.
Self-Assessment for Educators
Educators need to periodically reflect on their role, considering their own energy, attitudes, knowledge, and skills. According to Narrow (1979), several factors influence an educator’s ability to teach effectively:
- Energy Level: Physical and psychological factors, such as job satisfaction and personal well-being, affect an educator’s energy level and motivation.
- Attitude Toward Learners: Positive relationships with learners can enhance enthusiasm for teaching, while challenging learners can make the teaching process more difficult.
- Knowledge and Skills: Educators must feel confident in their subject matter and teaching skills. Additional study or peer support may be required if certain topics or skills are causing stress or anxiety.
- Comfort with Sensitive Topics: Educators who feel uncomfortable teaching sensitive topics (e.g., sexual behavior, terminal illness) should seek guidance from colleagues or additional training to improve their teaching effectiveness.
Evaluation of Teaching Methods in Nursing Education
Evaluating teaching methods is crucial to determine their effectiveness in achieving learning objectives. Continuous assessment helps identify whether the selected method is the most effective, efficient, and appropriate for the learning context. Educators should evaluate their teaching methods by considering the following five questions:
- Does the Teaching Method Help Achieve the Learning Objectives? The most important criterion in evaluating a teaching method is whether it successfully helps learners achieve the stated behavioral objectives. This involves assessing how well the method aligns with the learning domain (cognitive, psychomotor, or affective) targeted by the objectives.
- Does the Method Provide the Necessary Information for Learners to Succeed? The selected teaching method should deliver the required information and training so learners can acquire the necessary knowledge and skills. Accessibility is also important; educators should ensure the teaching method is appropriate for the learning environment and available resources. For example, childbirth classes for working couples should be scheduled at convenient times to accommodate the learners’ needs.
- Is the Teaching Method Efficient in Terms of Time, Energy, and Resources? Efficiency is a key consideration in evaluating teaching methods, especially in relation to the number of learners and the resources available. Large groups may benefit more from methods like lectures or group discussions, while smaller, more interactive methods may be better suited to a focused group of learners. Teaching methods should balance resource allocation and learning outcomes.
- Does the Teaching Method Allow for Active Participation? Active participation improves learning retention and engagement. Educators should choose methods that foster learner involvement. Methods like role play, simulations, and hands-on activities encourage active participation and help learners apply knowledge in practical settings. The level of active involvement should match the learners’ abilities and learning preferences.
- Is the Teaching Method Cost-Effective? In an era of cost containment, healthcare institutions are focused on achieving the best educational outcomes with the most cost-effective methods. The value of educational programs must be assessed based on the outcomes achieved compared to the resources invested. Cost-effective teaching methods deliver the desired educational outcomes while minimizing resource consumption and time away from clinical practice.
Conclusion
Selecting and evaluating teaching methods in nursing education is a multifaceted process that requires careful consideration of behavioral objectives, learner characteristics, educator comfort and expertise, and available resources. Effective teaching methods must align with learning goals and actively engage learners, while ensuring that educational programs remain efficient and cost-effective. Regular assessment and reflection are essential for educators to improve their teaching strategies and ensure the success of nursing education programs.