Providing Authentic Learning Experiences About Parkinson's Disease: Bringing Humanity into the Classroom

Abstract

Nursing faculty adjust teaching strategies to create best practices while balancing individual needs of students. They attempt to incorporate compassionate care for persons with Parkinson's disease into their curricula, yet no studies were found on meaningful strategies. A study was done with four universities in which students participated in in-class interviews, assigned readings, and guided, reflective journals. Broad themes emerged: lack of clinical exposure to persons with Parkinson's disease, shattering stereotypes, and the importance and power of a positive mindset of persons with Parkinson's disease. This study illustrates an approach of incorporating the patient human experience into meaningful teaching experiences for students.