Internal factors can impact every aspect of the curriculum development process. When developing and seeking approval for staff trainings, academic courses, or entire nursing programs, it is imperative

Internal factors can impact every aspect of the curriculum development process. When developing and seeking approval for staff trainings, academic courses, or entire nursing programs, it is imperative that nurse educators are cognizant of the internal environment of the parent institution or agency. Recognizing internal politics, budgetary and resource allocations, faculty/staff characteristics, and the organizational structure of the setting can help nurse educators better prepare for the development process. In addition, aligning the program to the overarching mission, vision, and philosophy of the institution can help nurse educators undergo a smoother approval process.

In this Discussion, you explore the development and approval processes used in an academic or clinical setting with which you are familiar. You then determine how internal factors may have impacted these processes.

To prepare:

• Consider how curriculum is developed and approved. How might approval at a large institution differ from that at a small institution? How might approval for an academic institution differ from that of a clinical agency?
• Select a curriculum (seminar, training, course, or program) offered through a workplace or academic institution with which you are familiar.
• Review Chapter 3, “Needs Assessment: The External and Internal Frame Factors,” in the Keating text. Examine how internal factors might have impacted the development and approval of this curriculum.

By Day 3

Post a brief description of the curriculum and setting that you selected. Provide an overview of the curriculum development and approval processes applicable to your selected setting. Explain how internal factors can impact the development and approval of this curriculum and why.