The clinical learning portfolio: a practice development experience in gerontological nursing

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Gerontological Nursing
• Clinical Assessment

Background:

• Higher-level clinical learning in post-registration programs requires specific assessment approaches.
• The literature presents varied perspectives on the efficacy of portfolios for assessment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To detail the implementation of a portfolio assessment for evidence-based practice and reflection in a Higher Diploma in Gerontological Nursing Programme.
• To present results from a pilot evaluation of this portfolio-based assessment method.

Main Methods:

• A postal questionnaire was used to evaluate the student experience.
• The study surveyed the first cohort of graduates from the program in 2002.

Main Results:

• Student feedback was collected post-graduation.
• The pilot evaluation focused on the perceived benefits and challenges of the portfolio assessment.

Conclusions:

• Portfolio assessment, alongside formative assessment, appears to enhance the connection between theoretical knowledge and practical gerontological nursing skills.
• This method supports the advancement of gerontological nursing practice through reflection and evidence-based practice.