A systematic review of qualitative studies exploring peer learning experiences of undergraduate nursing students

Peer learning experiences have been reported in previous qualitative studies, however individual findings could limit practical leverage due to small sample size. Thus it is necessary to integrate invaluable findings from various qualitative studies to consider appropriateness and acceptability of peer learning in professional nurse education.

To identify and synthesize qualitative evidence of peer learning experiences of undergraduate nursing students so as to understand their perceptions on peer learning experiences.

A qualitative systematic review was conducted in accordance with the Enhancing Transparency in Reporting the Synthesis of Qualitative Research (ENTREQ) statement.

Database searching was conducted on electronic databases such as Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), Science Direct, and MEDLINE that published from 2007 to 2017.

Qualitative studies were appraised using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP). Thematic analysis was used to analyse the data using line by line coding, organising coding into descriptive themes, and interpreting further to generate new insights.

Six studies were included in this review. The most common themes identified were integrated into two new insights including personal development and professional development.

This review has revealed that peer learning experiences contribute to the learning process of undergraduate nursing students in preparing them to become professional nurses through personal development and professional development.