The Learning Incubator: an innovative teaching and learning technology in nursing

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Healthcare Professional Development
• Educational Technology

Background:

• The integration of innovative teaching and learning technologies is crucial in nursing education.
• Understanding the perceived value and function of new educational tools is essential for effective implementation.
• The Learning Incubator is a novel approach to professional development in the nursing field.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore and define the meaning of the Learning Incubator as a teaching and learning technology within the nursing domain.
• To investigate how nursing professionals and students perceive the impact of the Learning Incubator on their knowledge and practice.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative research methodology employing grounded theory principles.
• Data collection through semi-structured interviews with nurses, technicians, and nursing students (n=23) from March to November 2019.
• Analysis involved comparative data analysis with open, axial, and integrated coding.

Main Results:

• The central phenomenon identified was '(Re)signifying knowledge and practices in the Learning Incubator'.
• Key components included: Condition (recognizing the inseparability of being and professional practice), Action/Interaction (revisiting repetitive practices), and Consequence (reflection and knowledge construction).

Conclusions:

• The Learning Incubator transcends its physical space and meeting themes, serving as a dynamic tool for nursing professionals.
• It actively promotes self-reflection and self-assessment of professional behaviors and attitudes.
• The technology facilitates a deeper understanding and transformation of nursing knowledge and practice.