Apa Format: 1 Page, 3 References From Walden University Libr

Apa Format 1 Page 3 References 1 From Walden University Libraryas A Nu

As a nurse educator, it is critical for curriculum to have ongoing evaluation, development and redesign, so that the learner can better understand the content and skills presented (Keating & DeBoor, 2016). Curriculum alignment and congruence aids in this goal. Alignment of a specific curriculum is obtained by the congruence of three educational components: curriculum, instruction, and assessment (Leitzel & Vogler, 1994). Strategies One strategy used to maintain alignment in curriculum is simulation. Simulations are used to supplement real life scenarios (Billings & Hallstead, 2016).

A multisite study was conducted on simulations and the results in 2014 showed that measured outcomes were met up to 50 percent of the time when simulations were used (Lippincott Nursing Education Blog, 2017). Alexander et al. (2015) notes that outcomes can be achieved by having the appropriated number of trained educators during the simulation times, and that the simulations are in line with the set design model already in place. This would be appropriate in the southeastern project because it would allow the learner to choose the time and possibly the place for when he or she would like to learn. A second strategy that aids in curriculum alignment and congruency is making sure the philosophy of the program matches the mission, vision, and values of the institution (Billings & Hallstead, 2016).

Because most faculty members will have his or her own beliefs about their school of nursing, the philosophy must be aligned to keep all educators united in their teaching.

Paper For Above instruction

Effective nursing education relies heavily on the continuous evaluation, development, and redesign of curricula to ensure that learners grasp essential content and skills efficiently. Curriculum alignment plays a vital role in this process by ensuring that the components of curriculum, instruction, and assessment are congruent, thus fostering a cohesive learning environment conducive to student success (Leitzel & Vogler, 1994). This alignment guarantees that educational activities are synchronized with the overarching educational goals, leading to improved learning outcomes and better preparedness of future nursing professionals.

One of the primary strategies used to maintain such alignment is the incorporation of simulation-based learning. Simulations serve to supplement real-life clinical scenarios, offering students a safe environment to develop critical thinking, clinical judgment, and procedural skills. Billings and Halstead (2016) highlight that simulations, when effectively integrated, can significantly enhance learning experiences in nursing education. A multisite study conducted in 2014 demonstrated that simulation activities helped meet educational outcomes up to 50% of the time, emphasizing their efficacy in clinical skill development (Lippincott Nursing Education Blog, 2017). To optimize the benefits of simulation, it is essential to have adequately trained educators present during simulation sessions. Alexander et al. (2015) argue that outcomes are more likely to be achieved when educators are aligned with the simulation design and properly trained, ensuring consistency and fidelity in the learning experiences provided.

In the context of the southeastern nursing project, facilitating learner autonomy by allowing students to choose when and where to participate in simulations could increase engagement and relevance. Such flexibility aligns with adult learning principles, fostering self-directed learning and accommodating diverse schedules and learning styles. Additionally, ensuring that the program’s philosophy aligns with the institution’s mission, vision, and values is another critical strategy for maintaining curricular congruence. Billings and Halstead (2016) stress that shared philosophical foundations among faculty promote unity in teaching approaches and reinforce a consistent curricular message. When faculty beliefs and institutional values align, educators can collaborate more effectively, creating a cohesive educational culture that supports ongoing curriculum development and innovation.

In conclusion, the ongoing evaluation and strategic alignment of nursing curricula through methods like simulation and philosophical consistency are essential for preparing competent, reflective, and adaptable nursing professionals. These strategies not only enhance learning outcomes but also foster a unified educational environment that supports continuous improvement and relevance to contemporary healthcare needs.

References

  • Alexander, M., Durham, C. F., Hooper, J. I., Jeffries, P. R., Goldman, N., Kardong-Edgren, S., & Tillman, C. (2015). NCSBN simulation guidelines for prelicensure nursing programs. Journal of Nursing Regulation, 6(3), 39-41. https://doi.org/10.1016/S
  • Billings, D. M., & Halstead, J. A. (2016). Teaching in nursing: A guide for faculty (5th ed.). Elsevier.
  • Keating, S. B., & DeBoor, S. S. (2018). Curriculum development and evaluation in nursing (4th ed.). Springer.
  • Leitzel, T. C., & Vogler, D. E. (1994). Curriculum alignment: Theory to practice. ERIC. https://eric.ed.gov/?id=ED371812
  • Lippincott Nursing Education Blog. (2017, March 1). Curriculum alignment: The why, the what, the how [Web log post]. Retrieved from https://www.lippincottsnursingblog.com