A Review of Innovative Teaching Strategies in Nursing Education: Transforming the Future of Healthcare Professionals

Background: The ongoing evolution of healthcare systems, coupled with rapid technological advancements, necessitates continuous innovation in nursing education. As the primary providers of frontline care, nurses require not only the mastery of traditional knowledge and clinical skills but also adaptability, critical thinking, and digital literacy. This review aims to summarize and critically analyze innovative teaching strategies that have emerged in nursing education over the past decade, highlighting their impact on student learning outcomes and the overall quality of nursing care. Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted using databases including PubMed, Scopus, and CINAHL, focusing on articles published between ۲۰۱۵ and ۲۰۲۵. Key search terms included 'innovative teaching,' 'nursing education,' 'simulation,' 'e-learning,' 'blended learning,' 'virtual reality,' and 'active learning.' Both qualitative and quantitative studies were examined to provide a broad perspective on the effectiveness and challenges associated with recent pedagogical reforms. Results: The literature indicates that a shift from teacher-centered to student-centered approaches has significantly improved nursing students' engagement, motivation, and practical competencies. Simulation-based education, including high-fidelity mannequins, standardized patients, and virtual reality platforms, has proven effective in developing clinical reasoning, psychomotor skills, and teamwork. Blended learning, which combines face-to-face and online modalities, enhances flexibility, accessibility, and individualized learning pathways. The integration of e-learning-particularly mobile applications and interactive modules-has increased student satisfaction and knowledge retention, especially in theoretical and self-directed learning environments. Furthermore, innovative strategies such as problem-based learning (PBL), flipped classrooms, and online peer collaboration foster critical thinking, communication, and lifelong learning skills that are essential for ۲۱st-century nurses. Discussion: Despite clear advantages, the adoption of innovative teaching strategies poses challenges, including faculty resistance, resource limitations, and the need for effective technological infrastructure and training. Addressing these barriers requires institutional support, ongoing professional development, and the alignment of curricula with evolving healthcare demands. Additionally, future research should investigate the long-term impact of these pedagogical innovations on patient outcomes and workforce preparedness. Conclusion: The review provides compelling evidence that innovative teaching strategies play a crucial role in transforming nursing education and shaping competent, adaptable healthcare professionals. To ensure sustained progress in this field, nursing educators, administrators, and policymakers must prioritize the integration of evidence-based, student-centered, and technology-enhanced teaching methods, adapting continually to the dynamic needs of healthcare.

کلیدواژه ها:

Nursing education ، innovative teaching ، simulation ، blended learning ، e-learning ، critical thinking ، curriculum development