The use of a curriculum model in an Accident and Emergency Department

This paper describes the adaptation and use of Beattie's curriculum model in an Accident and Emergency (A/E) Department. The rationale behind the undertaking was to reduce the incongruity between the triangle of the college, A/E and the student that creates the theory-practice gap in the context of A/E nursing. The article discusses firstly the decision to use a curriculum model. Secondly the reasons for the choice of model and the factors influencing that choice are discussed. The difficulties in applying the model and teaching methods that may be employed are examined. Student evaluation and the difficulties encountered in implementing the model is the final avenue explored. The article concludes that the strength of Beattie's model in A/E lie in its eclecticism. By combining all four approaches, the practical and theoretical contexts become integrated and in doing so reduce the theory/practice gap between A/E, the college and the student. It also provides a sense of balance for both student and teacher alike, amalgamating the four design briefs with the differing teaching methods thus catering for both group and individual student's differing learning styles.