The effectiveness of PechaKucha as a reinforcement tool in teaching vital signs skills to nursing students: A randomized controlled trial

Abstract

Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of the PechaKucha presentation technique as a reinforcement tool in teaching vital signs to nursing students. Background: Vital signs education is essential in nursing training, and engaging reinforcement methods like PechaKucha may enhance retention and satisfaction, though its use in nursing remains underexplored. Design: A randomized controlled experimental design with pre- and post-test measurements was used (Clinical Trials ID: NCT06750705). Methods: The study was conducted between December 30, 2024, and January 10, 2025, with 92 first-year nursing students at Siirt University. Participants were randomly assigned to either the control group (PowerPoint, n = 46) or the experimental group (PechaKucha, n = 46) using block randomization. Data were collected using the Vital Signs Knowledge Test, Skills Checklist, Satisfaction Survey, and Student Feedback Form. Statistical analyses included dependent and independent samples t-tests, with effect sizes calculated using Cohen's d. Results: While there was a significant increase in within-group knowledge scores after the training, no significant difference was found between the groups (p > 0.05). Skill scores were also similar (p > 0.05). However, the experimental group reported significantly higher satisfaction (p < 0.05, Cohen's d = 1.157). Most students found PechaKucha concise and clear (86.9 %), engaging (65.2 %), and helpful for focus (69.5 %) and retention (76.0 %). Conclusion: The PechaKucha method can be used as an alternative to traditional PowerPoint presentations in teaching vital signs to nursing students and may increase student satisfaction. This method contributes to the learning process by reinforcing information in a visual and focused manner. © 2025 Elsevier Ltd