Creating a climate for critical thinking in the preceptorship experience

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Clinical Preceptorship
• Critical Thinking Development

Background:

• The learning climate significantly influences students' critical thinking skills during preceptorship.
• Preceptor and staff attitudes and behaviors shape the student learning environment.
• Students' perception of being valued impacts their engagement and willingness to participate.

Purpose of the Study:

• Identify factors creating a learning climate conducive to critical thinking in preceptorship.
• Elucidate the roles of preceptors and staff in establishing this climate.
• Discuss strategies for nursing faculty to enhance supportive learning environments.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative analysis of factors influencing the preceptorship learning climate.
• Exploration of preceptor and staff impact on student critical thinking.
• Discussion of faculty roles in fostering conducive learning environments.

Main Results:

• A supportive and respectful learning climate encourages students to question, challenge, and problem-solve creatively.
• Preceptors and staff who value students as colleagues foster psychological safety.
• Open communication and approachability are key indicators of a positive learning environment.

Conclusions:

• Creating a positive learning climate is essential for developing critical thinking in student nurses.
• Preceptors and staff play a vital role in establishing an environment where students feel safe to learn.
• Nursing faculty must actively engage in ensuring supportive preceptorship experiences.