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Using Learning Outcome Measures to assess Doctoral Nursing Education
Published on: June 21, 2010
Using a linked learning activity to foster nursing students' professional growth
1Faculty of Health and Human Services, Malaspina University-College, Nanaimo, British Columbia, Canada.
Linked learning activities enrich nursing education by leveraging student diversity. This approach fosters professional growth and a positive image of nursing through shared experiences and dialogue.
Area of Science:
- Nursing Education
- Pedagogy
- Professional Development
Background:
- Traditional nursing education often overlooks the educational potential of student diversity.
- Learner-centered approaches can transform perceived differences into valuable learning opportunities.
- Bridging the gap between early and late-stage nursing students can enhance professional socialization.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the development, implementation, and evaluation of a linked learning activity.
- To explore how incorporating differences between first-year and fourth-year nursing students impacts learning outcomes.
- To enhance professional growth and the perception of the nursing profession.
Main Methods:
- A linked learning activity was designed to systematically integrate diverse student levels.
- Thematic analysis was used to analyze reflective writing from students and faculty.
- Focus was placed on the experiences and outcomes of this educational intervention.
Main Results:
- Thematic analysis revealed three key themes: experiencing collegiality, sharing insider perspectives, and re-envisioning nursing.
- Students and faculty reported positive outcomes related to mutual understanding and professional identity.
- The activity successfully leveraged student differences to enrich the learning experience.
Conclusions:
- Linked learning activities are effective in engaging diversity within nursing undergraduate programs.
- Facilitating dialogue between students at different developmental stages promotes positive socialization in nursing.
- This approach offers valuable insights for curriculum development and fostering a cohesive professional identity.
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