Teaching and assessing on course for change.

Abstract

This paper argues that the concept of change is a valuable tool for the development of continuing education which is relevant to the personal needs of nurse practitioners and to clinical practice. The context for this discussion is a teaching and assessing course which holds the concept of change as the central philosophy for curriculum structure. The paper begins by describing the course philosophy, curriculum models and outline structure which typify this course. The second part of the paper describes research used to evaluate the 13 courses which have been held and the main conclusions of this research. It is concluded that this course has proven educational benefits and effects on clinical practice which include the development of critical reflectivity, acceptance of change, increase in self confidence and an increase in self-directed learning.