Technology in Interprofessional Nursing Education

AUTHENTIC TEACHING USING TECHNOLOGY 

    There are so many ways for nursing educators to integrate technology into active, authentic, and experiential learning.  As I prepare for my role in nursing education, I am excited to incorporate innovative learning strategies into my teaching.  It will take some practice to understand which strategies can be applied to meet the learning goals.  As a nurse educator, I will have to question what is the best way to make learning authentic and meaningful.  Every student has their preferred style of learning, and it will be my job to understand the different learning styles and assist them in their learning. 

    

As I am pursuing my MNE, I am learning that active learning strategies can improve students’ critical thinking and problem-solving skills.  Infusing technology into active learning is a viable way of providing students with real-life scenarios that can strengthen their theoretical and clinical skills.  Kolb’s experiential learning cycle has four steps of learning which are concrete experience, reflective observation, abstract conceptualization, and active experimentation.  After reviewing the experience, the student can use abstract thinking to reach conclusions and understand the meaning of the experience, which then can lead to the final step of making a decision on how to act.  This theory will be important in my teachings because knowledge is achieved with experience, active learning, and reflection.  In my classroom, I want to put this to use by having students observe, reflect, and do in an active learning strategy by applying theory to real-world scenarios.  Examples of these activities can include simulations, role play, gaming, and group activities.  I believe in creating authentic learning experiences by having students engaged in relevant and real-life situations that use higher-order thinking skills.  The 21^st century is focusing on the student and I am inspired to create an environment where inquiry, collaboration, and reflection is encouraged and welcomed.

 LINKS TO LEARN MORE 

Experiential Learning

This article gives an overview of Kolb’s Experiential Learning Theory as the foundation for learning, development and change.  This theory supports the development of lifelong learners in their learning process.  We use Kolb’s theory in everyday life when we are solving problems and making decisions through the four steps of Experience, Reflect, Think, and Act.  

 Emerging Technology

 

 Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society, Inc. (HIMSS) is a company that wants to transform healthcare through technology.  Their website celebrates emerging technologies to support this goal.  They believe that nurses can use these technologies to optimize safe and quality care.  Examples of emerging technologies are Artificial Intelligence (AI), Virtual Reality, and the Internet of Things.