American nursing scholars abroad, 1985-1995

To explore the international activities of American nursing scholars from 1985 to 1995, as indicated by their international teaching, scholarship, and consultation.

All faculty (N = 2,254) teaching in nursing doctoral programs in the United States were surveyed using an investigator-designed questionnaire. The professional characteristics of American nursing scholars who worked abroad and the dates, nature, and types of international activities they undertook were ascertained. From a total of 928 usable returns, 247 described international activity.

Data indicated a three-fold increase in international activity from 1985 to 1995 in the three major areas investigated. Universities in Western Europe and Asia were the most frequent recipients of nursing scholarly activity. The scholars or representatives of the host institutions made approximately half the initial contacts. The international hosts or U.S. universities were the predominant providers of funding. Nurses most likely to participate in international scholarly activity were senior faculty who were full professors in doctoral-granting institutions, published in international journals, presented educational topics, and were recognized by peers through membership in honorary organizations.

A substantial increase in international nursing scholarship occurred during the decade studied, particularly related to teaching.