Master Instruction: A New Pedagogical Model or Master Instruction, a Pedagogical Model of Mastery

Purpose: Faculty competencies specific to education require a specialized pedagogical base that integrates the art and science of nursing practice with the teaching and learning process. To meet this need, Chamberlain College of Nursing has developed a pedagogical model called Master Instruction. Based on philosophical principles of creating a culture that supports and recognizes scholarly teaching, and furthers nurse educator competencies to address continuous quality improvement, Master Instruction builds and sustains evidence-based pedagogical teaching and learning strategies across learning environments. This symposium introduces Master Instruction as an initiative of the faculty development program offered through the Center for Faculty Excellence at Chamberlain College of Nursing to advance nursing education.

Methods: Faculty learn by using the pedagoical model and demonstrate competency. Applying methods that demonstrate how students learn, along with assessing and meeting individual learning styles and needs, is important to effectively engage students in developing successful nursing practice. Equally important is developing the skill set necessary for faculty to effectively integrate teaching strategies and learning activities with learning objectives.

Results: Faculty report an increase in feelings of support and empowerment in the nurse educator role.  Nurse administators are supported by development activities which improve the teachinglearning environment and new nurse educators.

Conclusion: Essentially, Master Instruction facilitates development of faculty competency and mastery across the career trajectory. In a series of courses along the Master Instruction Pathway to Excellence, this faculty development initiative guides faculty to learn and incorporate scholarly teaching across learning environments, and provides opportunities for participation in the scholarship of teaching.