Developing support for remote nursing education through workplace culture that values learning

The present study presents the cultural challenges of introducing workplace learning associated with a nursing educational pathway into small rural hospitals.

Focus groups were conducted before and after an action research intervention to determine whether changes in understanding and values on learning had occurred.

Eight multipurpose services or small rural hospitals across rural New South Wales were involved in the intervention.

Nursing staff from eight rural health facilities participated voluntarily in the present study.

Two outcomes were achieved: The development of mentoring, locally tailored to the needs and expectations of nursing participants; Values and understanding of learning were enhanced, with advanced levels of learning being identified and demonstrated by staff in the practice setting.

Small rural hospitals can provide opportunities for advanced clinical learning. Forms of major mentoring are, however, critical to this process.