The "virtual family": an evaluation of an innovative approach using problem-based learning to integrate curriculum themes in a nursing undergraduate programme.

Students on a four-year BSc honours in nursing programme evaluated the use of fictional families within problem-based learning (PBL) scenarios. The use of "virtual families" allowed for various parts of the nursing curriculum to be developed in innovative ways. The students appreciated the advantages of using such families to study the longitudinal aspects of health care and family dynamics, and to aid the integration of course work elements.