Monday, October 18, 2010

One to One Instruction as a Teaching Method

            I chose one to one instruction as my instructional method, which has been known as the most effective method of teaching (Guerrieri, 2010). One to one instruction is the best method when teaching students with learning disabilities (Bastables, 2008). There are several advantages of conducting a one to one instruction (Guerrieri, 2010). First, the teacher will be able to teach the learners by modeling the facts (Guerrieri, 2010). Secondly, demonstration of concepts is possible in one to one instruction (Guerrieri, 2010). Thirdly, the teacher is able to plan an individualized teaching plan based on the learning style of the learner (Guerrieri, 2010). Fourthly, the teaching can be paced according to the learner needs (Bastables, 2008). And finally, a continuous assessment and evaluation of the learner is possible by the teacher (Bastables, 2008).  
The limitations of one to one instructional methods include, lack of social interaction, learners may feel threatened while asking questions during class, and the learner may be overwhelmed in the class (Bastables, 2008).
Click to read the advantages of one to one instructional methods.
The Reading Recovery Council of North America, 2006, reported the research finding on one to one instruction as a much effective teaching method than the small group instructional method for learners with reading difficulties.
One to one instruction has been used in children with learning disabilities including autism. Click the following link to view a child’s day, during one to one instruction at school.
One to one instruction can be done using the modern technology too. View the video for one to one teaching using technology.

Clean Touch Protects Patients

                                                  Clean Touch Protects Patients
Hand washing is the simple, single, and the most effective way to break the chain of spreading infection (Werner, R, 2007). The concept of hand hygiene is not new. The importance of hand washing has been identified since the 19th century 9 (Case, 2009). However, until today, the World Health Organization (WHO), the Center of Disease Prevention (CDC) and the health care agencies continue to educate the public and the health care professionals on the importance of hand hygiene.
Read some of the historical events on diseases and infections which led to the importance of hand hygiene.
How do we wash our hands? What is the significance of washing hands with soap and water? Is it better than using Alcohol-Based Hand Rubs (ABHR)? A research study by Jabbar et all, 2010, found out that hand washing with soap and water diminishes the spores of clostridium difficile on hands than the ABHR does. Click the following link to view some interesting research findings on the results of hand washing using ABHR and soap with water.
Are we following the correct technique of washing hands? What are the steps to be followed in hand washing? How long will we wash our hands?

When do we wash our hands?
Wash hands
·         before and after touching patients
·         before and after performing procedures
·         before and after touching equipments
·         before and after eating
·         after using restroom
Also visit the following link to know some interesting facts on hand washing.



Tuesday, October 12, 2010

Promote critical thinking skills in nursing education

How can we promote critical thinking skills in nursing students? Well, use of concept map is one of the answers. Concept maps can be used by all learners irrespective of their learning styles.

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