Faculty practice: a model to bridge the theory-practice divide

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Clinical Practice
• Healthcare

Background:

• Nurse education's shift to higher education has created a theory-practice gap.
• Clinicians and professional bodies recognize the need for nurse educators to maintain clinical focus.
• Bridging the theory-practice divide is crucial for effective nursing.

Purpose of the Study:

• To critically discuss faculty practice as a model for bridging the theory-practice gap.
• To present the results of a 6-month pilot study implementing a faculty practice model.
• To explore the potential of such initiatives in improving nurse education and patient care.

Main Methods:

• A 6-month pilot study was conducted.
• The study implemented a faculty practice model within a community trust.
• The model aimed to integrate theoretical knowledge with practical nursing skills.

Main Results:

• The pilot study demonstrated the feasibility of implementing a faculty practice model.
• Initial findings suggest the model can foster collaborative working between educators and clinicians.
• The initiative showed potential for enhancing nurse education and patient care outcomes.

Conclusions:

• Faculty practice models offer a viable solution to the theory-practice gap in nursing.
• Implementing faculty practice can lead to improved nurse education and better patient outcomes.
• Further development of such initiatives is recommended to strengthen the connection between academic and clinical nursing.