Teaching Philosophy of Science in Nursing Doctoral Education

Purpose: To explore the teaching and learning process regarding philosophy of science and to offer creative recommendations based on classroom experience. Conceptual Framework: Dewey's writings about intelligence, deliberation, and critical reflection; Freire's writings about active knowers provide the foundation for the teaching and learning environment for doctoral students. Methods: A case example is presented. Creative strategies and assignments are used, such as classroom exploration and connections between nursing, philosophy, philosophy of science, and students' personal lives; classroom deliberation; journaling; philosophical thinking; development of a philosophical topic such as determinism, freedom, or the mind; and presentation of a philosophical book. Conclusions: The philosophy of science course is critical content for doctoral students.