Background of the Study
Problem-based learning (PBL) is an innovative teaching approach in nursing education that emphasizes student-centered learning through real-world problem-solving (Schmidt et al., 2023). Unlike traditional lecture-based methods, PBL encourages critical thinking, clinical reasoning, and collaborative learning by presenting students with complex healthcare scenarios that require active engagement (Yusuf & Ahmed, 2024). Nursing education has increasingly adopted PBL to enhance students' ability to apply theoretical knowledge to practical situations, thereby improving patient care outcomes.
Bayero University, Kano (BUK), is one of Nigeria's leading institutions for nursing education, incorporating various teaching strategies to enhance learning. However, the effectiveness of PBL in improving nursing students’ academic performance, problem-solving abilities, and clinical competence remains underexplored in this context. While studies have shown that PBL enhances student engagement and knowledge retention (Adebayo et al., 2023), challenges such as limited resources, resistance to change, and lack of trained facilitators may hinder its full implementation in nursing education at BUK.
This study aims to assess the effectiveness of problem-based learning in nursing education at Bayero University, Kano, by examining its impact on students’ knowledge acquisition, critical thinking skills, and overall academic performance. The findings will contribute to improving nursing curricula and ensuring the adoption of effective teaching strategies.
Statement of the Problem
Nursing education in Nigeria has traditionally relied on lecture-based teaching methods, which may not adequately prepare students for the complexities of real-world healthcare settings (Olawale & Bello, 2024). Problem-based learning offers a dynamic alternative that promotes independent learning and critical thinking. However, its implementation in Nigerian universities, including Bayero University, Kano, faces challenges such as limited instructional resources, faculty preparedness, and varying student engagement levels (Hassan & Suleiman, 2023).
While some studies have highlighted the benefits of PBL, there is limited empirical research evaluating its effectiveness in the Nigerian nursing education system. Understanding how PBL influences nursing students’ learning outcomes at BUK will help educators refine teaching strategies and improve nursing education standards.
Objectives of the Study
1. To assess the impact of problem-based learning on nursing students’ academic performance at Bayero University, Kano.
2. To examine how problem-based learning enhances critical thinking and clinical reasoning skills.
3. To identify the challenges associated with implementing problem-based learning in nursing education at BUK.
Research Questions
1. How does problem-based learning impact nursing students' academic performance at BUK?
2. To what extent does PBL enhance critical thinking and clinical reasoning skills?
3. What are the challenges faced in implementing problem-based learning in nursing education?
Research Hypotheses
1. There is a significant relationship between problem-based learning and improved academic performance in nursing students.
2. Problem-based learning significantly enhances nursing students’ critical thinking and clinical reasoning skills.
3. Challenges in implementing problem-based learning negatively affect students’ learning outcomes.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on nursing students at Bayero University, Kano, assessing their experiences with problem-based learning and its impact on their academic and clinical competencies. It will not include students from other faculties or universities. Limitations may include variations in how PBL is implemented across different courses and potential bias in students’ self-reported learning experiences.
Definitions of Terms
• Problem-Based Learning (PBL): A teaching method that uses real-world problems to enhance students’ learning and problem-solving skills.
• Clinical Reasoning: The process by which nurses analyze patient information and make informed decisions.
• Critical Thinking: The ability to objectively evaluate information to form a judgment.
• Academic Performance: The level of achievement students attain in their nursing education programs.
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