Innovative Communication Learning: Combining TED Talks and Reflective Writing for Nursing Students.

BACKGROUND As educational programs compete with online and open courseware, TED (Technology, Entertainment, and Design) Talks provide meaningful complementary content that can be easily integrated into curricula. PURPOSE Evaluate an innovative approach to the standard lecture by combining media mixture with reflective writing. METHODS Undergraduate nursing students were asked to view a TED Talk and write a brief narrative reflection as part of their preparation for a communication class. RESULTS The video and reflective writing assignment were completed by 23/25 (92%) of students. Qualitative analysis of the reflective writing identified three primary themes: Communication as a Foundational Competency, Importance of Empathy, and Professional Role Development. CONCLUSION This illustrative talk and narrative exercise provided an interactive learning experience for novice nurses that served as a compelling means to critically reflect on effective health-care communication skills, prior to entry into practice.