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Discussion: Applying Learning Theories to
Nursing Curriculum and Programs
Theorists have always been interested in how people learn. They have created and refined learning theories and provided authentic

examples of human motivation and learning preferences. Much research has also been conducted on how educators teach others. Literature

suggests that even when educators did not believe that they were using a theory, they were in fact using one or more to drive their

instruction. Though nurse educators may naturally incorporate theories into their instruction, great care should be taken to

consciously incorporate theories into the design and presentation of the curriculum. Doing so will not only benefit diverse learners

but also aid in the curriculum development process.
In this Discussion, you explore how learning theories offer distinct strategies, approaches, and considerations.
To prepare:
• Review the learning theories presented in this week’s Learning Resources.

(http://www.instructionaldesign.org/theories/index.html), How can each theory, or combination of theories, guide the curriculum

development process?
• Reflect on the curriculum or program that your team is developing for your Course Project. In addition, reflect on the learning

needs and diverse learning styles of your students/staff/patients.
• Select one learning theory that you could apply to your team’s curriculum or program. Consider how this learning theory could

guide your team’s curriculum development process.
• Access the “VARK: A Guide to Learning Styles” website, also found in this week’s Learning Resources. Complete the learning

styles assessment and review your scores and learning preferences. These results will assist you in your response post. ( http://vark-

learn.com/the-vark-questionnaire/?p=questionnaire)
Note: For the purposes of this Discussion, individually reflect and respond to this prompt. After Day 3, you can then use the insights

shared in each of your postings to further collaborate with your team and identify learning theories that are applicable to your Course

Project.
Post a brief description of how learning theories guide curriculum development. Identify your Course Project setting and provide a

brief description of your team’s proposed curriculum or program. Explain how your selected theory applies to your team’s

curriculum/program by sharing at least two authentic examples.