A new module in caring for older adults: problem-based learning and practice portfolios

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Geriatric Care
• Community Health

Background:

• Designing new educational programs based on current research is infrequent.
• A tender for community health care educational innovation led to a joint bid by Napier University and the University of Glasgow.
• The project aimed to pilot and evaluate an innovative program addressing evolving community health care needs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the design process of a new educational module for registered nurses caring for older adults.
• To detail how educational needs analysis informed the module's content and delivery.
• To present an innovative, student-centered educational program.

Main Methods:

• Conducted an educational needs analysis of the target student population (registered nurses caring for older adults).
• Developed a student-centered module utilizing problem-based learning (PBL).
• Implemented a practice portfolio for student assessment.

Main Results:

• The module's content was directly derived from the educational needs analysis findings.
• A problem-based learning approach was adopted for a student-centered learning experience.
• Assessment focused on practical application through a practice portfolio.

Conclusions:

• The developed module is an innovative educational program tailored to the needs of community-based nurses.
• The process highlights the value of research-informed curriculum design in health care education.
• The student-centered, problem-based learning approach enhances relevance and practical skill development.