May 2015
Martha
Boughen
,
RN, MSN
California State University CSU Dominguez Hills, School of Nursing
Carson
,
CA
United States

 

 

 

Ms. Martha Boughen has been a long-term part-time instructor at California State University-Dominguez Hills since 1994. She is also the course content expert of BSN 410/411 (Home Health Nursing Courses). Martha's teaching style, collaboration, and creativity in curriculum development speak to the following two Award categories: Providing an environment conducive to learning and critical thinking and demonstrating leadership in curriculum development and teaching.

For example, one of the most insightful learning experiences in the BSN 411 class is the weekly reflection on service learning. Using a model for reflection, students are guided through a critical thinking process about the very complex aspects of home health and hospice they experience during their clinical rotation. Through this reflection, students continue to learn as they critique the meaning of the lived experience. Self-appraisal and critical thinking skills are strengthened. Students are able to focus on the big picture as well as the smallest nursing action that might have occurred. Even a perceived negative event is brought into perspective through this process. Students validate professional practice as well as personal self-worth. As the course content expert, Martha consistently shows leadership and encourages those with experience to share in this process. She checks with assigned instructors each semester, offering guidance and support. Her syllabus is continually updated, reflecting contemporary nursing practice in home health and hospice. Her communication skills are exemplary.

In addition, Martha has great knowledge and experience in home health nursing and a very admirable passion for home health care. While she only works part-time at the School of Nursing, she has been actively involved in the BSN curriculum revision task force, which requires her to review documents, complete concept mapping, and participate in monthly meetings. Martha is also a key member of the BSN clinical team, where we develop and revise clinical forms and handbooks. Lastly, she is always there for new instructors assigned to teach home health nursing courses. The instructors and the coordinator alike appreciate her mentorship and guidance to the instructors.