The “virtual family”: an evaluation of an innovative approach using problem-based learning to integrate curriculum themes in a nursing undergraduate programme

Students on a four-year BSc honours in nursing programme evaluated the use of fictional families within problem-based learning (PBL) scenarios. The use of ‘virtual families’ allowed for various parts of the nursing curriculum to be developed in innovative ways. The students appreciated the advantages of using such families to study the longitudinal aspects of health care and family dynamics, and to aid the integration of course work elements. They commended the deeper understanding that they were able to develop and appreciated the realism of the holistic approach that this method introduced into the degree course. Recommendations for expanding the use of the virtual family in a PBL context are discussed. This approach is thought to offer potential in the teaching between disciplines and across cultures.