Active Learning Strategies BACKGROUND This project aims to improve nursing instructor confidence in implementing Active Learning Strategies (ALS) in the classroom.1 Evidence indicates that traditional passive learning approaches are associated with decreased student engagement, diminished critical thinking development, and lower motivation.2 • Nursing education is shifting toward actively applying, critically evaluating, and refining skills to prepare graduates better.3 • Educators report the need for more individualized, informal, and formal mentoring.4 • Training nursing instructors in the effective use of ALS can increase their confidence.4 • The AACN implementation toolkit promotes active learning.5 • The use of active learning provides students with opportunities to learn from mistakes without risk of harm and helps reduce errors in real-world settings.3 METHODS The Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) model was used as the framework for this project. Deliverables: • An evidence-based PowerPoint was developed to present the project to key stakeholders for approval. • An interactive PowerPoint presentation with practice scenarios was created to teach ALS to nursing instructors. • Pre- and post-test survey to assess nursing instructor confidence before and after attending the project presentation. • A timeline table was created for project implementation. Improved Instructor Confidence Wanda Murphy, BSN, RN, RNC-OB, MSN Student Trish Gibbs, DNP, RN, CNE Andre Birchell, MSN, RN, DNP Student INTERVENTIONS • • • • • • • • Step 1: Present the project and obtain project approval from key stakeholders Step 2: The pre-test survey will be given to nursing instructors Step 3: The ALS presentation will be introduced to nursing instructors Step 4: The post-test survey will be given to nursing instructors Step 5: Data will be gathered from surveys Step 6: During monthly Practical Nursing Collaboration meetings, formative feedback will be gathered from instructors. Step 7: After two semesters, project evaluation using summative feedback data will be assessed. Step 8: Dissemination of data IMPACTS Potential impact of ALS includes: • Transforming the educator role from a transmitter of information to a coach and facilitator who guides students.3 • Positively impacting undergraduate nursing students by providing a better learning option, patients by improving outcomes, and colleges by enhancing program completion, licensure, and placement rates. • Extending this project beyond faculty development and directly influencing nursing education.5 • Providing valuable insight into the factors that will influence the success of active learning integration and helping guide further refinement of the training program using the PDSA model. CONCLUSIONS REFERENCES 1Naing, C., Whittaker, M. A., Aung, H. H., Chellappan, D. K., & Riegelman, A. (2023). The effects of flipped classrooms to improve learning outcomes in undergraduate health professional education: A systematic review. Campbell Systematic Reviews, 19(3), e1339. https://doi.org/10.1002/cl2.1339 2Major, C. (2022). Collaborative learning: A tried and true active learning method for the college classroom. New Directions for Teaching and Learning, (171), 33–44. https://doi.org/10.1002/tl.20511 3Suresh, P. (2025). The future of nursing education: Key trends and advancements for 2025. Nursing Careers. https://www.tnnmc.org/future-of-nursing-education-keytrends-and-advancements-for-2025/ 4Axelsson, M. T., Oscarsson, M. G., Swahnberg, K., & Årestedt, L. (2024). Pedagogical challenges at clinical skills centres in nursing education: A phenomenographic study. Nursing Open, 11(9). https://doi.org/10.1002/nop2.70019 5American Association of Colleges of Nursing. (2021). Essentials Implementation Tool Kit. https://www.aacnnursing.org Relevant picture, graph or data set goes here Evidence supports integrating active learning strategies (ALS) into nursing education, demonstrating improved student engagement, academic performance, and satisfaction, while enhancing educators’ confidence and effectiveness. These findings highlight ALS as a valuable, evidence-based approach with the potential to improve educational outcomes and enhance patient care.