Brain Science-Based Innovative Collaborative Teaching to Facilitate Nursing Education

Abstract

Background: Innovative teaching that effectively promotes learning is a process called brain science. Chemicals released during motivation and attention lead to improved learning, and chemicals released during high-stress situations deter learning. The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has created unprecedented stress while providing an opportunity to create innovative strategies for facilitated learning. Method: To meet the pandemic challenges of a traditional undergraduate nursing program at a large state-funded university, specialty course faculty collaborated to redesign the courses using brain science concepts. Results: Students demonstrated improved average course scores across courses compared with previous students (obstetrics, 2%; pediatrics, 4.34%; and critical care, 1.38%). Overall student feedback was positive. Conclusion: Brain science provides the foundation for advanced education that promotes optimal learning. The stress of the COVID-19 pandemic has created the opportunity for the implementation of an advanced educational model in which learning is facilitated and supported. [ J Nurs Educ . 2022;61(3):162–166.]