Games-Based Learning for AGPCNP Students: A Novel Approach to Improve Clinical Competence
Games-Based Learning for AGPCNP Students: A Novel Approach to Improve Clinical Competence
Games-Based Learning for AGPCNP Students: A Novel Approach to Improve Clinical Competence
As healthcare providers, Advanced Geriatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP) students must possess the knowledge and skills necessary to manage complex medical conditions in older adults. To improve their clinical competence, innovative teaching strategies are needed. Games-based learning is one strategy that has acquired favor recently.
In March 2023, Frontiers published a report stating that games-based learning formats in medical education are generally well-received by learners and can provide an immersive and effective learning experience. These formats are engaging, easy to understand, and can be more educational than traditional teaching activities.
This article explores the potential benefits of games-based learning for AGPCNP students and provides examples of games that can be used in their education.
What is Games-Based Learning?
Games-based learning has become an increasingly popular approach for universities to engage and motivate students in various subjects, including healthcare education. By using game mechanics such as points, badges, and leaderboards, games-based learning stimulates active participation from learners and enhances their learning outcomes.
One university that has embraced games-based learning in healthcare education is Wilkes University. Their approach to AGPCNP programs involves virtual patient simulators that provide students with practical experience in clinical decision-making. Other universities have also followed suit and incorporated games-based learning into their curricula after recognizing the potential benefits.
If you're a student looking for a more engaging and innovative learning experience, exploring different universities and games-based learning courses can be a great place to start. With so many accessible choices, there is sure to be a program that matches your particular interests. By immersing yourself in a gamified learning environment, you can prepare yourself for a successful career in healthcare.
Benefits of Games-Based Learning for AGPCNP Students
Games-based learning has many potential benefits for AGPCNP students. First of all, games are naturally interesting, and using game elements like scores and leaderboards can encourage learners to participate more. This may result in more time invested studying, better retention of information, and better test results.
Secondly, games-based learning provides learners with immediate feedback on their performance, which can enhance the retention of information. This input enables students to pinpoint their areas of weakness and modify their study methods appropriately. Games also provide a low-stakes environment for learners to practice clinical skills in a risk-free environment.
Additionally, games-based learning can promote teamwork. A 2022 study published in the National Library of Medicine suggests that games-based learning can foster collaboration among students. Specifically, playing multiplayer games for interprofessional medical teamwork can facilitate the application of teamwork principles in important domains among students, even on a basic level.
Additionally, game-based learning can be tailored to suit the unique requirements of each learner. Gamification can be used to create learning experiences for students that are tailored to their unique learning styles and abilities. This may result in enhanced learning effectiveness and results.
Examples of Games for AGPCNP Education
Several activities can be incorporated into AGPCNP instruction to improve practical competency.
One example is virtual patient simulators, which are computer-based programs that simulate clinical scenarios. BioMed Central published a study in May 2022 that found small-group virtual patient simulation training to be an effective and low-risk educational strategy. The report also stated that this approach could improve student perceptions of their individual learning process and curricular integration.
Another example of games-based learning is case-based learning games, which present learners with clinical cases and challenge them to diagnose and manage the patient's condition. These games can be used to reinforce clinical reasoning and decision-making skills, as well as to promote collaboration and teamwork.
Jeopardy-style games can also be used in AGPCNP education to review content and reinforce learning. These games can be designed to cover a broad range of topics or focus on specific areas of clinical practice.
Finally, escape room games are another example of games-based learning that can be used to enhance clinical competence. These games require students to solve riddles and find hints in order to flee a virtual space. They can be designed to focus on specific clinical scenarios and promote teamwork and collaboration.
Conclusion
Games-based learning is a promising approach that can improve the clinical competence of AGPCNP students by creating an interactive, personalized, and safe learning environment.
This approach uses various game mechanics, such as instant feedback, teamwork, and customization, to motivate students to participate actively in their education, improve their performance, and enhance knowledge retention. By adopting this approach, universities can train future healthcare providers to deliver high-quality care to older adults.