Literature and music: an educational strategy in psychiatric mental health nursing

Author(s): Booth, C.

Journal/Book: J Nurs Educ. 1988; 27: 374-7.

Abstract: The authors believe that literature and music as an adjunct in teaching psychiatric-mental health nursing are enriching for students and faculty. Although a systematic evaluation process has not yet been completed, anecdotal evidence suggests that more interesting classes and greater learning results from a variety of teaching methods (Bloom, 1976; Shipman & Shipman, 1985). The students learn from the life experiences of others portrayed by the characters in literary and musical form. Insights into the psychodynamics of human behavior are gleaned through the study of the reality of the total person rather than a focus on mental disorders. Moreover, students take a more active role in learning since they problem-solve in class rather than the more passive role that usually accompanies the lecture format. Through the increased use of reflection, analysis, and self-discovery, students hopefully will continue to utilize these processes, thereby increasing their awareness of the psychological aspects of everyday media, valuing human behavior, and perceiving the world in a more integral whole.

Keyword(s): Medicine in Literature Literature, Modern; Music ; Psychiatric Nursing education; Teaching methods Human

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