A Book Review: Getting Started in Teaching for Nursing and the Health Professions by Judith Halstead and Diane...

In this column, the author reviews a foundational guide designed for clinical experts transitioning into faculty roles within nursing and health professions education. The text is praised for its accessible, conversational tone and practical approach, featuring useful checklists, appendices, and a logical structure organized into five thematic sections covering curriculum, classroom and clinical teaching, technology, and program evaluation. Its significant strength lies in translating theoretical concepts into actionable steps, framing the educator as a steward of the entire educational program. However, the review identifies critical limitations, including an unconventional sequence that separates core teaching topics and a treatment of the syllabus as a legal contract, a notion challenged by legal precedent. While the book serves as an excellent introductory resource, its occasional gaps in pragmatic strategy and depth lead to the conclusion that it is best suited for novice educators.