The Neuman Systems Model in nursing education: course development and implementation

Nursing education programmes increasingly are integrating nursing models into their curriculum. The model chosen can provide a guide for curriculum content as well as strategies for learning content. In the clinical setting a model can facilitate the student's nursing practice by assisting in the organization of observations and interpretation of data. This paper describes the introduction of the Betty Neuman Systems Model to fourth year baccalaureate students at the University of Ottawa School of Nursing, Canada. The selection of this model for a senior nursing course reflects its congruency with the school's philosophy of learning and nursing and the purpose of the course. Course development and implementation, teaching strategies and outcomes are discussed and reflect an attempt at incorporating a nursing model into course design.