Strategies for Teaching Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Principles of Nursing

Abstract

Background: Nursing programs need to identify creative teaching strategies, guiding students to reflect on individual value systems and consider the values of others as they apply diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the provision of individualized nursing care. Purpose: The purpose of this project was to develop teaching strategies related to DEI content and examine how first clinical semester, prelicensure baccalaureate nursing students perceived these strategies. Methods: Participants engaged in self-reflection on topics related to DEI, using guided questions in discussion boards, a written paper, and a simulation-based experience. Thirteen students completed an anonymous survey with consideration of these activities and their perceived impact on DEI in their personal nursing practice. Outcomes: Three investigators analyzed survey responses by employing Word Clouds, word counts, and interdependent content analysis and found that using the existing syllabi for the Principles of Nursing course and modifying it to address DEI concepts resulted in perceived increases in awareness, sensitivity, knowledge, competence, and holism.