We support a learning-centred environment in the BSN Program to help further develop your capacity for critical thinking and intellectual growth. With this in mind, you will be challenged to:
- Actively participate in class and seminar discussions;
- Critically assess information sources;
- Work collaboratively with classmates, faculty, and clinical practice colleagues;
- Connect theoretical knowledge to nursing practice experiences;
- Develop a beginning personal vision of yourself as a professional nurse.
Both faculty and students have a responsibility to display professional, respectful behaviour as we work toward these goals.
Continue reading to learn more about evaluation in theory based and clinical courses.
Evaluation strategies in theory and clinical courses are diverse and include: written mid-term and final examinations; online quizzes; oral examination; a systematic literature search; case studies; written nursing care plans; portfolio; group presentations; concept map; shift plan analysis; web reports; and written papers. Clearly articulated criteria for each assignment are the basis for determining a student’s grade, and assignments may not be re-written for a higher grade.
In laboratory courses, a student’s capacity to perform and integrate clinical skills is evaluated by faculty during one-to-one and small group sessions. For skills integration evaluation, students complete a specific technical competency and related assessments within the context of a specific client scenario. Evaluation components include communication, organization of care, safety, critical thinking, problem solving and decision-making, and application of knowledge, as well as assessment and technical skills specific for the situation. Students are also expected to report to the faculty member, who is acting as the “RN,” who evaluates the presentation of the student’s report and the professional interaction. In the clinical practice settings, clinical faculty observe and assist a student’s ability to meet the professional nursing practice competencies on an ongoing basis, and ultimately grade performance as Pass or Fail.