Many CNA programs are struggling to get students the clinical hours they need to meet requirements and the hands-on practice they need for skills mastery. Scenario-based learning not only provides students with opportunities for skills training in their classrooms, but it also naturally leads to soft skill development.
Recently, Realityworks Product Manager Denise DuBois hosted a webinar with Kimberly Harper, RN and Nursing Instructor. Kimberly has 17 years of experience of clinical instruction with nursing students and CNAs. She regularly collaborates with programs across the country to bring innovating ideas to instructors and industry leaders. In this blog post, we share the key takeaways from their presentation, which focused on using scenario-based learning to teach critical CNA and soft skills. Keep reading to learn more, or watch the complete webinar on-demand anytime below.
What is scenario-based learning and why should you use it?
Scenario-based learning is an active learning method that uses real-life scenarios to create relatable learning experiences. Today’s students value opportunities to practice skill before doing them in real life. This learning method builds on skills students already have and creates a foundation for further skill development.
Using scenario-based learning gives teachers the opportunity to validate the lessons students have learned. It helps students determine any behavioral changes needed and translate knowledge from the classroom to real life. Scenario-based lessons also naturally generate discussions. In turn, students practice critical thinking and problem-solving; they translate knowledge into skills.
Successful scenario-based lessons
Successful and realistic components to scenario-based learning include creating the best learning environment available, supporting key component requirements and setting SMART goals.
SMART goals guide the process of the scenario. This may include what skills will be accomplished and a checklist of specific completion goals. By setting SMART goals, you can identify a student’s understanding at a specific skill level and develop different scenarios for different skill levels.
Tips for building your scenarios:
Good scenarios are relevant. They offer up-to-date, engaging tools. Keep scenario lessons short to allow for debriefing and soft skill discussions afterwards.
- Defining intended outcomes. Students need to understand their role, be able to communicate and use critical thinking skills. If key steps are missed, you might need to stop the scenario for adjustments. It is ideal that problem-solving skills are happening at the right time.
- Make a critical action checklist. Make a list of key scenario components so learners understand the critical actions that are needed for the scenario.
- Create the scenario. Determine when the scenario will start, formulate key points and assign roles. Decide at what point the scenario will end. Collect all hands-on equipment and supplies for scenarios, include best practices information and make it realistic as to what the student will encounter in a real scenario.
Virtual TIP: For virtual settings, it is important to test platforms. Some examples include Mural for visual whiteboard collaboration, effective for brainstorming/mapping and conversation in real time; Poll Everywhere for icebreaker activities and adding video clips to add to the scenario discussion.
- Build case narratives. Be sure to use real life scenarios or even past student examples as it will help facilitate real, memorable experiences.
- Keep instructor notes. Maintain a list of tips and tricks you want to remember for next time. Noteworthy items can comprise of suggestions for the learner in the room or thought on what to do differently for struggling student vs advanced student.
- Make a debriefing plan. Ask your students for input such as what went well, what opportunities were present and what could be better. Ask them to consider what they would do differently the next time and what the most meaningful takeaway was for them.
Tools for scenario-based learning in CNA courses
Sample scenarios and ideas are sprinkled throughout Denise and Kimberly’s presentation. Watch the webinar in its entirety to get resources such as DIY inspiration and helpful websites, plus sample scenarios.
Save lesson planning time with “scenarios in a box.” Realityworks’ out-of-the-box CNA skills sim kits provide 3 ready-to-use scenarios. Each kit includes accompanying simulation props, extensive scenario guides, best practices aligned to INACSL standards and more.
Realityworks’ pathway/occupation-specific workplace scenario cards are great for classroom ice breaker activities and wrapping up lessons. You can also use them to facilitate written activities and discussions.
Learn more
- See a complete list of resources discussed in this webinar here
- Download our free guide, “Classroom Ideas to Help Students Develop Empathy Toward Older Adults”
- Learn 3 Ways to Use Our Health Science Skills Simulation Kits in this blog
- Download a free guide, “Free guide: Using Scenario-Based Learning To Explore Careers“