Transforming student perspectives through reflective writing

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Professional Development

Background:

• Registered nurse-to-bachelor of science in nursing (RN to BSN) programs aim to foster perspective transformation.
• Reflective writing is a key pedagogical strategy in higher education.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a package of reflective writing activities designed for perspective transformation in RN to BSN students.
• To encourage RN to BSN students to explore new ways of thinking about their practice and education.

Main Methods:

• A package of 4 commonly used reflective writing activities was implemented.
• Activities were utilized before, during, and after class sessions.
• The target audience was students in their first RN to BSN course.

Main Results:

• The reflective writing package facilitated engagement with new perspectives.
• Students were prompted to critically analyze their nursing practice.
• The activities supported a shift in educational outlook.

Conclusions:

• Reflective writing is an effective tool for perspective transformation in RN to BSN education.
• This learning package can enhance the educational experience for RN to BSN students.
• Encouraging new ways of thinking is crucial for advancing nursing practice.