The Art of Storytelling in Nursing Education

23/12/2016

Adult Learning, FOANed, Learning, Nurse, Nurse Education, Nurse Educator, Nursing, storytelling

Storytelling

Storytelling is an integral part of our lives. It starts from childhood whilst listening to parents tell us bedtime stories. It also begins when reading books for the very first time. In an age of technology and artificial intelligence, it is worth considering the fate of some of our humanistic traits. These include the art of telling a good story and the ways we maintain these skills. Storytelling within indigenous communities serves as a vital tool for teaching. It aids in self and community development. It plays a crucial role in maintaining culture. This demonstrates how important stories are.

“Communication in Indigenous American communities is rich with stories, myths, philosophies and narratives that serve as a means to exchange information. These stories may be used for coming of age themes, core values, morality, literacy and history. Very often, the stories are used to instruct and teach children about cultural values and lessons.” (Wikipedia, 2016).

Nursing StoryTeller

There are many nurses and healthcare professionals who provide insights and debates by using clinical situations from their clinical experiences. These events are often funny and real life. They make an impression, and there are many ex-healthcare workers in comedy who provide great workplace stories.

We can understand and empathise with colleagues, patients or families by hearing their stories and seeing life through their eyes. This style of delivering information is a skill. It resonates so much more than a boring memo, update or routine education delivery. Just read some of the comments on prominent healthcare leaders posts, they really generate thoughts and discussion among the nursing and wider community.

The Narrative by Nancy Duarte: Ted Talks