Peer-led, transformative learning approaches increase classroom engagement in care self-management classes during inpatient rehabilitation of individuals with spinal cord injury

The study aimed to improve how individuals with spinal cord injuries (SCI) learn to manage their care during inpatient rehabilitation. They compared traditional nurse-led classes to peer-led classes that used transformative learning techniques. Transformative learning involves helping patients understand why new information is important by relating it to their own experiences and challenges after a traumatic injury. The revised classes incorporated peer support, blended learning, and a flipped classroom approach. The researchers measured patient engagement by observing behaviors such as asking questions, participating in discussions, and showing agreement or disagreement. They found that patients were significantly more engaged in the peer-led classes.

• 1
  Significantly higher average positive engagement responses were observed in the revised peer-led classes compared to conventional nurse-led classes.
• 2
  87% of patients who experienced both class formats believed the revised peer-led classes better strengthened their understanding of the topic and ability to solve problems related to their care needs.
• 3
  Patients found class topics delivered by peers to be more informative and more engaging than the conventional approach.