In real time: exploring nursing students' learning during an international experience

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Global Health Education
• Qualitative Research

Background:

• International learning experiences are increasingly used in nursing education to foster global awareness and understanding of social injustices.
• Existing research primarily focuses on the post-experience benefits for students, rather than the learning process during the experience itself.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the real-time learning process of nursing students during an international learning experience.
• To identify factors that shape and enhance nursing students' learning in a global context.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study involving eight nursing students in Zambia.
• Data collected in real-time through direct observation of learning activities and three interviews per student.
• Thematic analysis used to identify emergent themes.

Main Results:

• Expectations significantly shaped students' learning experiences and perceptions.
• Active engagement in learning activities was crucial for facilitating knowledge acquisition and skill development.
• Critical reflection enhanced the transformative nature of the learning experience, promoting deeper understanding.

Conclusions:

• Nursing students' learning during international experiences is influenced by pre-existing expectations, active participation, and reflective practices.
• Educational strategies should address media-influenced expectations and promote critical reflection for effective global citizenship and transformative learning.
• Findings offer insights for optimizing international learning experiences in nursing education.