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Problem-Solving Before Instruction (PS-I): A Protocol for Assessment and Intervention in Students with Different Abilities
Published on: September 11, 2021
Problem solving strategies used by RN-to-BSN students in an online problem-based learning course
Nancy L Oldenburg1, Wei-Chen Hung
1School of Nursing and Health Studies, Northern Illinois University, DeKalb, Illinois 60115, USA. nacyo@niu.edu
The Journal of Nursing Education
|April 27, 2010
Summary
Nursing students in online problem-based learning courses improved resource use but struggled with communication and source credibility. Further support is needed to enhance their problem-solving skills in this environment.
Area of Science:
- Nursing Education
- Healthcare Professional Development
Background:
- Developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills is vital for nursing students in today's healthcare landscape.
- Problem-based learning (PBL) is a pedagogical approach suggested to foster these essential skills.
- Existing literature has gaps regarding the specific strategies employed by learners within PBL environments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the problem-solving experiences of RN-to-BSN students within an online PBL course.
- To gain insights into the strategies and challenges faced by nursing students during PBL.
Main Methods:
- A qualitative case study approach was utilized.
- Data were collected from six RN-to-BSN students enrolled in an online PBL course.
- Data sources included discussion transcripts, reflective papers, and interview transcripts.
Main Results:
- Students demonstrated enhanced resource utilization and successfully resolved cases, identifying key facts and clinical applications.
- Challenges were observed in communicating findings, verifying source credibility, and providing constructive feedback.
- Learners' ability to effectively communicate and critically evaluate information requires further development.
Conclusions:
- Online problem-based learning can support the development of problem-solving skills in nursing students.
- Targeted interventions and increased instructional support are necessary to address identified difficulties in communication and source evaluation.
- Facilitating robust problem-solving abilities in nursing students within online PBL settings necessitates focused guidance.
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