Previous Page

A Review of Data-Based Studies on Bioethics Education

June 18, 2016

Audio Recording

Video Recording

In order to form a basis for developing undergraduate Christian bioethics curriculum, an extensive literature search was conducted using the EBSCOhost Online Research Databases. For the first search on bioethics education, specific search terms included but were not limited to “college or undergraduate” and “teaching or pedagogy” and “bioethics or bioethical” and excluded the terms “nursing student” and “medical student.” A second search focused on Christian ethics education was conducted using search terms including but not limited to “higher ed or higher education” and “teaching or pedagogy” and “Christian Ethic or catholic and ethic” and excluding the terms “nursing student” and “medical student” but it was difficult to find data based studies. Articles that included data were selected for review resulting in 37 on general bioethics education and only one on Christian ethics education. Two additional articles referenced by another study were included due to their relevance. There were various types of studies including program and course evaluations, teacher and student evaluations, and teacher and student opinions. Some of the papers presented successful approaches to ethics instruction which will be helpful for curriculum development. However, factors beyond the classroom that affect an individual’s ethics responses include personal experience, professional experience, and major indicating that education is only one aspect of how ethical decisions are made. Other studies provided insight into how bioethics is prioritized. For example, teachers generally believe teaching about values and ethics is important but its coverage in programs seems to be considered inadequate and the most significant factor is a lack of time. Various approaches to teaching ethics including teaching frameworks, learning goals and assessment strategies will also be highlighted. The results of this literature review will be helpful for future development of Christian bioethics curriculum.

Keywords:
Ethics education; University education