Undergraduate peer-assisted learning in the clinical setting

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Clinical Skills Development
• Professional Role Transition

Background:

• Peer-assisted learning (PAL) is an educational strategy where senior students mentor junior students.
• Implementing PAL in clinical settings can enhance learning and professional development.
• This study focuses on PAL's impact within a nursing fundamentals clinical experience.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of peer-assisted learning in nursing clinical education.
• To assess students' perceptions of professional nursing roles through PAL.
• To identify benefits for both junior (sophomore) and senior nursing students.

Main Methods:

• A 2-year study involving 342 nursing students at a private university.
• Senior nursing students provided assistance to sophomores during clinical rotations.
• Data collection likely involved surveys or feedback to assess outcomes and perceptions.

Main Results:

• Sophomores reported decreased anxiety and increased confidence in their clinical skills.
• Senior students experienced enhanced professional development and confidence.
• PAL facilitated the transition of senior students into the professional nurse role.

Conclusions:

• Peer-assisted learning is a valuable teaching strategy for nursing education.
• PAL improves clinical skill acquisition and understanding of professional nursing roles.
• Further research should explore diversity, learning styles, and faculty perspectives on PAL.