Researchers discuss how to integrate joy into virtual nursing education

Nursing educators who teach virtual classes should incorporate play, art, music and reflective practices to improve learner engagement and enhance well-being, according to an article in the December issue of Nurse Leader. The authors maintain gathering messages, gratitude reflections, themed sessions, storytelling, guest speakers and creative exercises such as drafting haikus are effective at improving engagement and fostering emotional connection in online education. They say taking breaks from rigorous content to integrate creative content can enhance the learner’s focus and enhance academic performance. These strategies also align with Domain 10 (lifelong learning, well-being and leadership development) of the American Association of Colleges of Nursing’s Essentials: Core Competencies for Nursing Education and the Institute for Healthcare Improvement’s framework for improving joy in work.