Nursing theory and theoretical frameworks are often difficult concepts for prelicensure nursing students to understand. Of particular concern is an inability of many students to grasp the relevancy of theory to professional nursing and for their future practice. The purpose of this project was to integrate an arts-based learning strategy in a sophomore-level nursing research class to figuratively demonstrate the relevancy of nursing theory and frameworks to nursing practice. Prior to class, students were asked to read about nursing theory from their textbook. At the start of the class, they were asked, "What is nursing theory, what is meant by a theoretical framework, and why it is important for nurses to have an understanding of nursing theory?" Students were then given a brief 30-minute lecture on nursing theory with exemplars. They were provided with a blank wooden frame and assorted art supplies purchased from a local craft store and given 30 minutes to creatively express a nursing framework. On completion, students presented their nursing frameworks. Individually and collectively, they discussed how compassion, kindness, and being authentically present form the framework for their anticipated practice. Students also were able to verbalize and demonstrate, through their artwork, how theories informed the foundation of nursing practice. Through this activity, students demonstrated a deeper understanding of nursing theory and conceptual frameworks and how both inform their practice. The use of arts-based learning for this millennial group of nursing students was useful in integrating a complex topic in a way that was easily understood by the students.

Monika S. Schuler, PhD, RN, CNE, University of Massachusetts -Dartmouth, College of Nursing, North Dartmouth, MA, (mailto:[email protected]).