CNE Curriculum Development & Instructional Design 3 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which learning theory underpins problem-based learning (PBL) in nursing education?
- Behaviorism
- Constructivism (Correct answer)
- Cognitivism
- Humanism
Correct answer: Constructivism
PBL is grounded in constructivism, where learners actively construct knowledge through experience, collaboration, and problem-solving in realistic contexts.
Question 2: When writing measurable learning objectives, which component is often described using the ABCD method? What does 'C' stand for?
- Content
- Condition (Correct answer)
- Competency
- Criteria
Correct answer: Condition
In the ABCD model (Audience, Behavior, Condition, Degree), 'C' stands for Condition — the circumstances under which the learner performs the behavior.
Question 3: A faculty member integrates pharmacology content into a medical-surgical nursing course rather than teaching it separately. This exemplifies which curricular approach?
- Compartmentalization
- Horizontal integration (Correct answer)
- Vertical threading
- Modular separation
Correct answer: Horizontal integration
Horizontal integration weaves related content (like pharmacology) across courses at the same level rather than teaching disciplines in isolation.
Question 4: Which evaluation level in Kirkpatrick's model assesses whether learning actually occurred?
- Level 1 – Reaction
- Level 2 – Learning (Correct answer)
- Level 3 – Behavior
- Level 4 – Results
Correct answer: Level 2 – Learning
Kirkpatrick's Level 2 (Learning) evaluates whether participants acquired the intended knowledge, skills, attitudes, or confidence from the educational activity.
Question 5: A nurse educator uses case vignettes with branching scenarios. Which instructional method is being applied?
- Lecture with Q&A
- Socratic seminar
- Decision-tree simulation (Correct answer)
- Concept mapping
Correct answer: Decision-tree simulation
Branching scenarios present learners with decision points that lead to different outcomes based on choices, mirroring decision-tree simulation methodology.
Question 6: When developing curriculum for a competency-based nursing program, what must each competency statement include?
- A time estimate for mastery
- An observable, measurable behavior (Correct answer)
- A specific textbook reference
- A faculty member's signature
Correct answer: An observable, measurable behavior
Competency statements must describe observable, measurable behaviors so that achievement can be objectively assessed and documented.
Question 7: Which accreditation standard directly influences the structure and content of a nursing curriculum in the United States?
- Joint Commission Tracer Methodology
- ACEN or CCNE program standards (Correct answer)
- Magnet Recognition criteria
- ANA Scope and Standards of Practice
Correct answer: ACEN or CCNE program standards
ACEN (Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing) and CCNE (Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education) set the accreditation standards that directly govern nursing program curriculum.
CNE Curriculum Development & Instructional Design 3
Which learning theory underpins problem-based learning (PBL) in nursing education?