An Innovative Approach to Teaching Evidence-Based Practice: Use of PICO Pal

Abstract

Background: An innovative remote learning intervention, PICO Pal, was implemented with groups of undergraduate nursing students in a nursing research course to promote interactive learning, collaboration, and information literacy. Problem: Evidence-based practice (EBP) is a challenging topic to teach nursing students, especially in a remote learning environment. Approach: PICO Pal used Apple Numbers to facilitate remote group work on a PICOT poster. The approach was evaluated using pre-and posttest surveys with 50 undergraduate nursing students at a small private university in New Jersey. Outcomes: The evaluation showed positive perceptions of the assignment and gains with knowledge of EBP. However, there were no gains in the perceptions of group work. Conclusions: The assignment was effective at teaching aspects of the EBP process but should be reevaluated to maximize group work dynamics and comfort with use of technology.