Factors hindering implementation of learner-centred teaching strategies in Christian Health Association of Malawi nursing colleges

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Date
2015-12-01
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Meaningful learning requires learner-centred teaching strategies, which focuses on the needs of the learners. The study therefore, aimed to explore factors hindering implementation of learner-centred teaching strategies. A descriptive cross sectional design was used. A total of 72 nurse educators participated in the study and completed questionnaires. This was complemented by observation checklists for data gathering: eleven lessons were observed while the nurse educators taught their different courses.. The study found that a combination of learner and teacher-centred approaches were used by the nurse educators. However, classroom observation revealed that traditional lecture methods dominated most classrooms. The main challenges were lack of training for nurse educators in learner-centred teaching strategies; negative nurse educators and students attitudes towards the learner-centred teaching strategies and large numbers of students per class. It is assumed that training and support may improve educators’ attitudes and teaching methods. Therefore, the study recommended that a policy should be in place that promotes learner-centred teaching and learning strategies, adequate resources and ongoing support to educators for instance training in learner-centred teaching strategies. Furthermore, the results showed that there was a significant relationship (p<0.05) between nurse educators and students attitudes towards learner-centred teaching strategies. In addition, there was a significant correlation (p=0.01) on lack of resources to implement learner-centred teaching strategies and lack of orientation to these teaching strategies in the training. Nonetheless, the study showed no significant correlation (p>0.05) between years of experience; educational level and knowledge of learner centred teaching strategies as well as its use.
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