Processes and strategies for implementation of learning modules in a nursing curriculum

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Curriculum Development

Background:

• Traditional nursing curricula face challenges in adapting to evolving healthcare needs.
• Modularization offers a flexible approach to nursing education.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the implementation of modularization in an undergraduate nursing program.
• To identify facilitators, challenges, and strategies for successful modularization.
• To assess student responses to modularized learning.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative analysis of faculty experiences and strategies.
• Review of program goals and implementation processes.
• Summary of student feedback on the modular approach.

Main Results:

• Successful implementation of modularization was achieved through specific faculty strategies.
• Key facilitators included administrative support and faculty collaboration.
• Student responses to modular learning were generally positive, with areas for improvement identified.

Conclusions:

• Modularization is a viable strategy for enhancing undergraduate nursing education.
• Further research into self-instructional methods in nursing is warranted.
• The UCSF School of Nursing's experience provides a model for other institutions.