Effects of Integrated Learning Method on the Learning Outcomes towards Concept and Principle of Holistic Health Assessment under Thai Qualifications Framework for Higher Education among Nursing Students

Abstract

This classroom research aimed to examine the effects of integrated learning method on the learning outcomes towards concept and principle of holistic health assessment under Thai Qualifications Framework for Higher Education (TQF: HEd) among nursing students. The sample consisted of 68 second year nursing students studying at Prachomklao College of Nursing, Phetchaburi in academic year of 2011. The research instruments consisted of the integrated learning method, a case study, movie, games, the nursing students’ assessment of learning outcomes with the reliability of .97, a test with the difficulty and the discrimination within the range of .31-.74 and .20-.56, respectively, and the learning-based questions. The implementation and data collection were conducted from June to July, 2011. Data were analyzed by using frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation, and content analysis.

The results were as follows:

1. After finishing the integrated learning method, the overall average scores of learning outcome were at a good level ( = 4.31, SD = .45), and the overall average score of knowledge was at a good level ( = 7.35, SD = .75). Additionally, the overall average score of analytic thinking was at a very good level ( = 8.61, SD = .92).
2. Nursing students were impressive with the integrated learning method, which was divided into 3 aspects such as the learning outcomes, instruction processes, and lecturer’s personalities. In particular, the three items with highest frequency were: ‘learning of holistic condition assessment and understanding of personal difference’ (29.41%), ‘applicability of contents and concepts of holistic assessment in the real situation’ (26.47%), and ‘good teaching techniques and clear explanation of lecturer’ (25%), respectively.

This study suggested that lecturers should provide the integrated learning method in other subjects, intervening concepts of humanized health care, with various teaching methods and interesting learning medias.