Curriculum evaluation--a new approach

This paper describes the development of a College-wide curriculum evaluation strategy. The strategy has been implemented on all courses offered by the Lancashire College of Nursing and Health Studies. An extensive review of the literature revealed that no evaluation models were suitable for use across all College courses. This was due to their over-emphasis on either the process, or the product of education; none of the published evaluation models adequately address both of these components of professional learning. The criteria required, of both the model and the evaluation tools, included the need for a measurable component, inclusiveness, simplicity and practicality. In order to meet these a new model of evaluation and appropriate data collection tools/analytical systems were developed. This Professional Process and Product Model forms the basis for the described strategy. The model is easy to use due to its recognition of the professional nature of those involved in nurse education, this professional status, and the accountability which it implies, ensures that only relevant and significant information is included in the formal evaluation of courses. This ensures an ability to meet future contractual quality standards which will be a requirement for providers in the health care of the 1990s.