New practical tools for education in cancer nursing
The EduCanNURS Project is developing innovative tools to strengthen cancer nursing education for undergraduate students. Our goal is to integrate the continuum approach of cancer care — from prevention to palliative support — into nursing curricula.
Through this work, we are:
- Creating an implementation model and pilot module for educators
- Testing and evaluating the materials in real educational settings
- Producing a toolkit for nursing teachers
- Developing recommendations for advancing cancer nursing education.
Teaching practices differ widely between countries
Our team reviewed 132 international studies to map current methods and identify best practices. While we found excellent examples of effective teaching, we also discovered gaps — particularly in content coverage and teaching strategies. The findings were clear:
Every nurse, regardless of specialty, should have a solid understanding of cancer care and treatment.
Building the pilot module: New content, new methods
The practical phase of the project is well underway. We are designing visual, interactive learning materials to enrich cancer nursing education. These materials are being developed in Thinglink, featuring six core units that follow the full continuum of cancer care:
- Cancer prevention
- Cancer diagnosis
- Cancer treatment
- Supportive care and coping
- Rehabilitation and self-care
- Palliative care
The content combines short lectures, information sessions, quizzes, and reflection questions that spark discussion and critical thinking.
In addition, we have created eight patient cases that reflect both common and emerging cancer types. These cases help students apply their knowledge and understand the diversity of cancer nursing in real-world contexts.
We are also developing instructions, for both teachers and students, on how to use the materials. Along with that, we are developing tests and assignments that support the content of the new teaching module and help assess the competence of nursing students. The development process is carried out collaboratively with experts from all partner countries in the project.
Testing and refining the model
The pilot phase will test the full set of materials using one comprehensive patient case and all six core units. Students’ competence will be evaluated before and after the pilot to measure learning outcomes.
Both students and teachers will take part in group interviews to provide feedback on the materials, teaching approach, and functionality of the Thinglink platform.
Their insights will guide the next stage of development, ensuring that the final teaching module is:
- Practical and relevant for both educators and students
- Engaging and easy to use
- Effective in building real-world cancer nursing competence
Supporting the future of cancer care education
By integrating these tools into undergraduate nursing programs, the EduCanNURS project aims to strengthen cancer care knowledge across all nursing fields. Ultimately, our mission is to ensure that every future nurse feels confident and competent in supporting patients along the entire cancer care journey.
Writers
Isa Öhberg, Tarja Bergfors, Anne-Mari Seppälä, Anne Nenonen / Turku University of Applied Science, Finland