Abstract: Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of applying the Thinking, Problem, Keypoints, Case, Experiment, Expansion (TPKCEE) teaching model in geriatric nursing courses in higher vocational colleges. This study aims to optimize the smart teaching system of geriatric nursing and provide references for curriculum teaching reform. Methods:?A total of 134 students from two classes of Grade 2023 vocational nursing students were recruited using a convenience sampling method, with 67 students in each group. The control group received traditional teaching methods, while the intervention group was taught using the TPKCEE teaching model within a 5G+ smart classroom. Comparisons were made between the two groups in terms of theoretical and practical examination scores, critical thinking ability, attitudes toward older adults, and career motivation in geriatric nursing. Textual analysis was conducted on the reflective journals of students in the interventional group. Results: Scores of all dimensions and total scores of critical thinking ability in the theoretical and practical assessments of the intervention group were significantly higher than those of the control group (P<0.05). The total score and positive dimension score on the Kogan's Attitudes Toward Older People Scale, as well as the value subscale score and expectation subscale score on the Student Career Choice Motivation Questionnaire for Elderly Nursing, were significantly higher in the intervention group than in the control group (P<0.001). Reflective diary analysis revealed that nursing students in the intervention group experienced positive internal changes in learning interest, occupational cognition and professional sense of belonging, and their original stereotyped perceptions of the elderly were reshaped. Conclusion: The application of the TPKCEE teaching model within the 5G+ smart classroom for geriatric nursing in higher vocational nursing education can enhance students' learning initiative, improve their comprehensive abilities, cultivate a positive attitude toward the older adults, and increase their career motivation in geriatric nursing.

Key words: geriatric nursing; smart classroom; nursing education; curriculum teaching