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Published on: June 21, 2010
Self-concept of the nursing profession among nursing students: An art-based qualitative analysis
Irit Schwartz-Attias1, Anat Amit Aharon2
1Meir Academic Nursing School and Lecturer in the Faculty of Medicine, Department of Nursing, Tel Aviv University, Israel.
Background:
In general, nursing students' self-concept of nursing is associated with their professional competence. Arts-based pedagogical approaches offer a creative way of supporting nursing education that improves clinical practice and creates meaningful learning.
Purpose:
The aim of the study is to understand the professional self-concept of nursing students through their self-artwork.
Method:
A qualitative descriptive design from an arts-based critical perspective was applied to nursing students from an accelerated program for non-nursing BA graduates. The thematic analysis utilized the constant comparative analysis method.
Results:
The study included 34 artworks created by 184 students. Three themes and 11 codes were identified. The themes are: "The question is why?"; "My story,"; and "Nursing is a value." The themes and codes reflect a naïve view of nursing self-concept, societal critique regarding the profession's poor image, and recognition of nursing as a feminist and transition tool, particularly among Arab women. Students expressed concerns about balancing professional commitments and their own needs.
Conclusion:
Use of artwork may help students express their professional self-concept, thoughts, feelings, and criticism. Nursing educators and leaders can use these insights to develop an education process adapted to the needs of students, professionals, and society.
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