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Headshot of Michelle Pearson-Smith

Michelle D. Pearson-Smith, MSN, RN, CCRN-K

Interim Chair
Associate Professor

Office Hours

Mon1100 to 1300

About Michelle

Education

2012    Idaho State University, Master of Science in Nursing; Education

2001   Lewis-Clark State College, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Teaching Philosophy

I believe that learning is a magnificent, lifelong process that occurs in relationship to context/(environment) and cognition/(perception). My role as a teacher is to facilitate learning through providing sound scientific and clinical practice knowledge as well as opportunities for social interaction. I intend to build relationships with students and mentor them throughout that time.  The combination of these things will enhance learning and encourage students to assimilate meaning and understanding, as well as engage and acculturate them to the college environment and the nursing profession.

I believe that the learning environment should be relaxed, safe, comfortable, and respectful.  Both teacher and learner should benefit from interactions.  My goal in teaching is facilitating student success.  I want the students to appreciate the information they are provided, to take it in, reflect on it, and use it in context before categorizing it permanently.  I want students to have a firm grasp on the knowledge and skills learned from me, so that they can apply them correctly in any given situation.

Clinical Practice

St. Joseph Regional Medical Center     Lewiston, Idaho

2010-2023        Staff Nurse:  Emergency Department  

2007-2008        Clinical Care Coordinator: Intensive Care Unit

2003-2010        Charge/Staff Nurse: Intensive Care Unit 

2001-2003        Charge/Staff Nurse: Inpatient Mental Health