Concept mapping: a distinctive educational approach to foster critical thinking

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Physiology
• Pathophysiology

Background:

• Advanced practice nurses (APNs) require a strong understanding of physiological processes to provide safe and effective patient care.
• Linking clinical interventions to pathophysiological mechanisms is crucial for APNs.
• Creative teaching methods are needed to foster deeper learning and critical thinking in nursing students.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the efficacy of concept mapping combined with case-study clinical rounds.
• To enhance critical thinking and learning retention in graduate-level physiology/pathophysiology courses for APNs.
• To promote a positive and effective learning environment for advanced practice nursing students.

Main Methods:

• Concept mapping was integrated into a graduate physiology/pathophysiology course.
• Case-study clinical rounds were utilized as a pedagogical tool.
• The combined approach aimed to facilitate connections between theoretical concepts and clinical application.

Main Results:

• The study suggests that this integrated method can improve students' ability to connect complex physiological concepts.
• Enhanced critical thinking skills were observed in students utilizing this approach.
• Greater learning retention was noted compared to traditional teaching methods.

Conclusions:

• Concept mapping coupled with case-study rounds is an effective strategy for APN education.
• This pedagogical approach supports the development of essential clinical reasoning skills for APNs.
• Innovative teaching strategies are vital for preparing competent advanced practice nurses.