Innovative Faith Integration In Healthcare Education Related to Three Different Modalities (Didactic, Online Asynchronous, Clinical Education)

Abstract

How do you teach healthcare profession students to apply faith, not just in the classroom but in their profession (McKnight, 2017)? This article presents an innovative approach to faith integration in healthcare education through three distinct modalities: didactic, online asynchronous, and clinical education. This initiative, spearheaded by three nursing faculty members, aims to bridge the gap between spiritual beliefs and professional practice (Young, 2023). Recognizing the challenge of applying biblical principles in real-world healthcare scenarios, faculty members designed faith-based case studies and devotionals that foster engagement, ethical reasoning, and spiritual growth among healthcare profession students. In didactic settings, students engage in discussions about nursing scenarios, which are structured around concepts related to formulating a biblical worldview through reflective questioning. Online asynchronous activities use faith-driven case studies to promote leadership and ethical decision-making, while clinical education encourages students to apply a biblical worldview in patient care settings. Preliminary feedback indicates that these methods enhance student engagement, ethical reasoning, and the integration of faith into professional practice. This approach offers a holistic model of education that prepares nursing students to become compassionate, ethically-grounded healthcare professionals capable of addressing both the physical and spiritual needs of their patients. This project highlights the importance of continued research and adaptation in faith integration within healthcare education, ensuring students are equipped to meet the complexities of their roles with both clinical competence and a biblical worldview (Siahaan, 2021).