Project-based learning in remote teaching for undergraduate nursing students

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Health Professions Education
• Educational Technology

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated emergency remote teaching in higher education.
• Traditional teaching methods faced challenges in maintaining student engagement and practical skill development in a virtual setting.
• The need for innovative pedagogical approaches in nursing education became critical.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the implementation of Project-Based Learning (PBL) for undergraduate nursing students during emergency remote teaching.
• To assess the effectiveness of PBL in fostering student engagement and skill development in a virtual environment.
• To explore the role of digital technologies in supporting PBL in nursing education.

Main Methods:

• The study utilized the Project-Based Learning (PBL) methodology in a remote undergraduate nursing course during 2020.
• PBL phases included anchoring, driving question, investigation, creation, and presentation of results.
• Small student-tutor groups and process evaluations were integral to the remote learning experience.

Main Results:

• Undergraduate nursing students successfully developed health education projects utilizing a virtual learning environment.
• Digital platforms and tools were effectively integrated to support project development and collaboration.
• The virtual PBL approach facilitated the creation of practical health education initiatives.

Conclusions:

• Project-Based Learning, combined with digital technologies, successfully met educational objectives in remote nursing training.
• The methodology enhanced student motivation and autonomy throughout the emergency remote teaching period.
• Students developed essential competencies for creating health education projects, crucial for nursing practice.