Teaching strategies used by nursing faculty to facilitate critical thinking in classroom and clinical settings

Abstract

To practice in today's complex healthcare environment, nurses must think critically (Brunt, 2005a). Fetter (2001) suggested that "habits of the mind," as defined by (Scheffer & Rubenfeld, 2000) be used by faculty as a basis for clinical learning. The organizing framework is derived from Scheffer & Rubenfeld's (2000) definition of critical thinking. The population will consist of all nursing faculty currently teaching in 22 baccalaureate nursing programs in the state of Indiana. The anticipated sample is 75 faculty. Individual questionnaires based on "habits of the mind" and a demographic form will be mailed to each School of Nursing. Findings will provide faculty in schools of nursing with information about teaching strategies currently used to promote critical thinking.