I am a new nursing student. A total neophyte. I have no prior medical experience and I'm totally learning the medical jargon etc. and the groundwork for becoming a good nurse. I began in March of 2004 and so far I'm doing good in my classes except for one, which I'd like to do better.
The dilemma is that this is a Fundamentals of Nursing class. This is the most if not one of the most important courses I have. And my grades are not what I want them to be. I read my chapters, I dedicate the same amount of study time as in my other classes etc. But I never feel confident when I sit down to take a test or demonstrate in practicals.
Here is the thing. I know that the instructors are there to only facilitate. But, mines is not even doing that. She digresses a lot and goes off on tangents and irrelevant info and the meat of what we should learn or focus on is not elucidated. We are deluged with readings and it would be helpful if she could just home in on certain facts and points (like the other teachers do). But, she doesn't. Additionally, when we go into the lab there is no structure. There is no initial demonstration and then breaking off into partners to practice. Lab time is disorganized and a free for all. I am so frustrated because all that I learn is basically from classmates who are either CNA's or care takers in their own home and have experience.
If, I were the only one feeling this way then I'd reevaluate myself. However, the majority of the class feels the same way. Additionally, we all agree that our grades in the Fundamentals class prove the deficiency in comparison to what we get in other courses.
We have grumbled and sought advice informally. However, no real solutions are evident. I've even considered seeing if I could go sit in on another Fundamentals class on my own time (if it is free) and see if I would benefit that way. Of course, I don't have that kind of time, but I would try to do it.
The teacher senses our frustration. She is very kind and sweet, but can become threatened and impatient and shows it.
What would you guys do in this situation? Grin and bear it? Formally, collectively let her know what WE need? Complain to the heirarchy? Chalk it up as our own personal problem?
I NEED HELP and all your suggestions will be copied and forwarded to my class.
