Final Blog!

During the second portion of ONTL 650, we discussed the different types of learning theories. I identified the Constructivism approach online as the most appropriate for the online component for my doctoral research.

I think that for the purposes of my research, the Constructivism approach may be the best theory to use. During a previous class, this theory was used to create a program that would be implemented into the acute care Stroke Unit. The theory was used to create a link between prior knowledge and new knowledge while incorporating cultural knowledge and personal experiences. Early mobility in the ICU is a modern concept, a lot of the more experienced nurses are skeptical over the appropriateness of getting a patient up while still intubated. Therefore, a Constructivism approach may be the best way to appropriately teach the new ideas.

Design-Based Research may also be a good approach to teaching about facilitating participation in the ICU. This theory would help to link research to practice. There is quite a lot of research out there assessing the appropriateness of early mobility in the ICU, however, this is not seen as much in practice.

Both of these ideas could work together to create one learning approach. The ideas could be explained at length while providing the readers with research articles that demonstrate how these ideas are carried out.

The course also discussed giving students the power to choose what they would like to learn. I thought this was an interesting approach, one that I was not very familiar with. I think it would be interesting to attempt in a classroom or program development. However, at this point for the purposes of my research this approach may not be appropriate. The goal of the research is to see what changes there are in the patients activity levels once nursing staff have gone through online education. The student centered approach may be beneficial with supplemental research.

When presenting the information to my participants I would try to incorporate the 7 Principles. The program would encourage good contact with my participants, both electronically and in the field. I’m not sure how much discussion will be allowed between participants to allow for cooperation among them. Active learning would be one of the most important approaches for the program, to encourage the participants to actively utilize what is being taught. I would also be allowing for prompt feedback and high expectations of what the participants demonstrate for their understanding.

I would also implement a type of mentorship in this program development. Reflection over what has been taught/explained would be an important way to assess their learning.  He reflecdtions would be online and available for allparticipants to read,in hopes that it will create conections for them also, and to allow for another way of learning.

There are many resources out on the internet that demonstrate the importance and feasibility of early mobilization in the ICU. However, they can be difficult to find and trust at times. Through this course, I was able to explore a few good resources both static and dynamic use of media. These include journal articles, books also published online, use of Youtube, prestigious educational websites.

This second installment of the class provided me with new learning techniques that I will be able to add to my toolbelt of knowledge. I have been able to explore the uses of technology while integrated into an online program. All of these techniques can be utilized in my research of ventilated patients in the ICU.