In a classroom teaching style, a nursing instructor educates nursing students face-to-face. This teaching style is similar to the way an instructor would teach another subject, such as math or science. The teacher administers tests, asks students to present research reports and keep notebooks.
Traditional methods of clinical simulation include a hands-on experience. After watching and learning from an instructors, students use a mannequin model and a 12-lead ECG machine to perform procedures, such as a resuscitation. The instructor might evaluate how the class works as a whole or test individual student accomplishments and failures.
For a demonstration teaching style, training usually takes place in groups of 12 to 20 students, depending on the size of the program. An instructor gives a demonstration on a procedure, for example a birth, and asks students to take notes on her expert approach. Demonstrations in traditional styles are rarely "hands on" for students. Rather, students learn from watching the instructor; in later courses, or in an exam period, a student might have to perform on a mannequin patient.
Some nursing program instructors gear courses toward developing expertise in a particular area, such as medical-surgical nursing or women's health. Teachers can opt to focus on teaching theories of the particular area and their applications in a real-life hospital. These theories might include honing leadership skills, or the importance or creating and applying of research to nursing practices.
According to Bowie State University's traditional nursing track, the faculty uses various educational technologies to enhance a traditional teaching approach. For instance, an instructor might start by writing formulas on a chalkboard or assigning tests, but complement the work with a Web-enhanced format. For instance, if a student cannot attend class one week, he can participate from home online.