Nursing Student Preference for Block Versus Nonblock Clinical Models

Clinical experiences are essential in undergraduate nursing student education to develop professionalism and integrate theory into practice. However, little evidence is available to guide curricular planners in determining the appropriate and effective use of different clinical models in nursing education.

Nursing students and four schools of nursing in two western Canadian provinces participated in this descriptive exploratory study examining student preference for clinical models. Thematic analysis of qualitative data addressed two research questions: What type of clinical model is preferred by nursing students? and How does clinical structure influence nursing students' perceived learning?

Nonblock clinical practice is preferred by students with respect to a balanced lifestyle, concurrent integration of theory and practice, and critical reflection, whereas the block model is preferred for assimilation, consolidation, and socialization.

Integration of both clinical models is recommended within undergraduate nursing curricula, as each model can facilitate student learning. [J Nurs Educ. 2017;56(3):152-157.].