Nursing students' evaluation of clinical experiences in a rural differentiated-practice setting

This article describes nursing students' evaluations of clinical experiences in a rural nursing center that uses a differentiated practice model. The center provides clinical experiences for associate degree, baccalaureate degree, and master's degree nursing students. Learning objectives and student roles are differentiated according to educational level and reflect the practice model used by the nursing center. Student evaluations showed high levels of satisfaction for all three groups and indicated that experience at the center increased students' knowledge of rural health. Findings also showed that autonomy, independence, and a supportive staff are valued characteristics of this practice setting.