Nursing scholarship and the asymmetrical professor

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Higher Education Studies
• Professional Development

Background:

• The role and scholarly endeavors of nursing professors have been debated.
• A recent editorial questioned the core responsibilities of nursing professors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose a scholarly role for nursing professors that contrasts with a research-centric model.
• To advocate for the concept of a
• symmetrical professor
• who embodies a holistic approach to the profession.

Main Methods:

• This paper presents a conceptual argument and critical analysis.
• It responds to a specific editorial challenge regarding the professorial role.

Main Results:

• The proposed scholarly role, the "symmetrical professor," prioritizes "professing the profession" over extensive research.
• This model offers a balanced perspective on the nursing professor's responsibilities.

Conclusions:

• The traditional emphasis on research for nursing professors may be insufficient.
• A "symmetrical professor" model better serves the nursing profession by focusing on teaching, mentorship, and professional advocacy.