Student, Preceptor, and Faculty Perceptions of Three Clinical Learning Models

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education Research
• Clinical Learning Environments
• Healthcare Professional Training

Background:

• Nursing faculty aim to create effective clinical learning environments for student competence.
• This study investigated perceptions of three clinical models: traditional, precepted, and hybrid.
• Understanding these models is crucial for enhancing nursing education.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore student, preceptor, and faculty perceptions of three distinct clinical nursing models.
• To identify key themes and areas for improvement within each clinical model.
• To inform the development of optimal clinical learning environments.

Main Methods:

• A conventional content analysis approach was used.
• 150 students, 7 preceptors, and 12 faculty members responded to open-ended survey questions.
• Data were analyzed to identify themes within and across participant groups.

Main Results:

• Student themes: 'Making Connections' (traditional), 'Land of Opportunity' (precepted), 'Total Package' (hybrid).
• Preceptor themes: 'Giving of Self,' 'Reflection on Practice.' Faculty theme: 'Value of the Nurse.'
• Students desired more skill practice; preceptors sought clearer communication and roles.

Conclusions:

• Formalizing and studying clinical models that leverage faculty and preceptor expertise is recommended.
• Optimizing clinical learning environments is essential for nursing education.
• Further research into effective clinical models is warranted.