The effects of a synthesis of nursing practice course on senior nursing students' self-concept and role perception

This study investigated the effects of a Synthesis of Nursing Practice course on senior nursing students' self-concept and perception of role competencies. Seventy senior baccalaureate nursing students enrolled in the Synthesis of Nursing Practice course participated in the study during their last semester in the program. The Tennessee Self-Concept Scale was used to measure self-concept and the Slater Nursing Competencies Rating Scale was used to measure perception of role competencies. These instruments were administered at the beginning of the Synthesis of Nursing Practice course and immediately following completion of the course. A t-test was used to assess the differences between pre- and posttest group means. The study findings indicated a significant increase in the students' self-concept (p = .10) and perceived role competencies (p = .001). Implications of the findings for nursing education are discussed.