Innovative Lesson Plans for Active Learning 32
Theory Mapping: Conceptual and Operational Definitions
Prerequisite ● Problems, objectives, hypotheses, and variables in studies
Knowledge
● Introduction to study frameworks
Learner Classroom
Setting
Strategy Small group
Type
Time Faculty prep: 45 minutes
Delivery with students: 30 minutes
Evaluation: 15 minutes
Learning ● To distinguish and critique conceptual and operational definitions
Objectives
● To identify connections between nursing theory and research
Materials/ Map templates (see below)
Resources
Mapping pieces (see below)
Envelopes
Glue sticks
Completed student example (see below)
Strategy After a brief instructor-generated example regarding the differences
Overview
and connection between conceptual and operational definitions,
students work in small groups to sort and place conceptual and
operational definitions onto a map of a theory of pain. The instructor
circulates the room to provide guidance and facilitates a discussion of
the groups’ answers when the task is complete.
Steps 1. Demonstrate difference and relationship between conceptual and
operational definitions using a simple example, or one from a
published study.
2. Distribute one map template, one envelope of color-coded
mapping pieces, and one glue stick to each group
3. Instruct students that their task is to sort the mapping pieces and
glue the conceptual and operational definitions for each box in its
Innovative Lesson Plans for Active Learning 33
appropriate place. Each color corresponds to one row (or
column); the students must determine where the correct colors
go.
4. Circulate through room to assist student groups as needed.
5. Facilitate group discussion of answers.
6. Note: Students like to take photos of the completed map so all
can have a copy of the work.
Evaluation Low stakes – Instructor feedback during class activity and/or credit for
active participation
Innovative Lesson Plans for Active Learning 34
Theory Mapping: Instructor generated example
Conceptual Definition Operational Definition
The abstract or theoretical meaning of the The operations that researchers must
concept being studies perform to collect and measure the
required information
Conceptual Definition Operational Definition
Weight The gravitational pull on an An object’s weight in pounds, to the
object’s mass nearest whole pound
Anxiety A feeling of unease Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale
Palmar Sweat Index
Innovative Lesson Plans for Active Learning 35
Theory Mapping: Map template
Students glue conceptual definitions for each box beside (C) and operational definitions
beside (O).
Innovative Lesson Plans for Active Learning 36
Theory Mapping: Mapping pieces
Opioid analgesic or local Drug, dose, frequency, route,
anesthetic given systemically or and method of administration
by epidural for acute pain
Analgesic given as a Drug dose, frequency, route, and
supplement method of administration
Complementary nursing Technique, dose, frequency, and
therapies: relaxation, music, mastery of use
imagery, massage, or cold for
pain relief
Report of pain and side effects Pain rating scale & patient report
every 2-4 hours or nurse observation of side
effects of opioids
Pain/side effect intensity Number and intensity of side
greater than mutual goal effects that are unacceptable to
patient/nurse
Immediate intervention for pain Nurse documentation
and side effects; reassessment
when peak effect is expected,
and reintervention if pain and
side effects are still
unacceptable
Patient instruction, encouraging Documentation of nurse
attitudes, expectations, and instruction, or patient use of
action in reporting pain, audio/videotape
obtaining medication,
preventing pain during activity,
and using complimentary
therapies
Mutually agreed upon, safe, Nurse discussions with patient
realistic goals for relief daily, including documentation
Patient satisfaction with relief of Pain intensity on a visual analog
pain and relief or absence of scale
side effects
Opioid Side Effects Scale
Innovative Lesson Plans for Active Learning 37
Theory Mapping: Completed student example
