Challenges, innovations, and the role of design-based research in advancing nursing education: a review

As a response to the complexity of modern health care, nursing education is undergoing significant transformation. This paper aims to explore changing dynamics in nursing education, highlighting trends, challenges, and the potential of Design-Based Research (DBR) as a methodological approach for curricular enhancement. This study employed a qualitative synthesis methodology was utilised, employing a systematic literature analysis of peer-reviewed articles published from 2019 to 2023. Relevant studies were searched in primary databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar, using specific keywords pertaining to nursing education, innovative pedagogical approaches, and DBR. The review revealed significant trends in nursing education including empathy and resilience, cultural competence, technology, interprofessional education, as well as competency-based approaches. Major challenges included teacher shortages, limited clinical placements, technological adaptability, and student mental health issues. DBR became an approach to address these challenges and offers an iterative model for curriculum development and educational innovation. DBR is a systematic and collaborative way to improve nursing education. Despite the barriers to implementation, DBR can lead to a more applicable curriculum based on real-world healthcare needs and create a nimbler educational process to prepare nursing graduates for working in complex healthcare environments.