Identifying Student Learning Challenges and Potential Solutions in Nursing Education Delivery in Rural Nova Scotia...

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Rural Health
• Qualitative Research

Background:

• Rural nursing programs face challenges meeting healthcare demands.
• Limited clinical placements, workforce burnout, and preceptor shortages impact rural nursing education.
• Rural nursing students experience financial, social, and resource burdens.

Purpose of the Study:

• To understand the learning challenges faced by baccalaureate nursing students in rural settings.
• To identify potential solutions for improving rural nursing education from the students' perspective.

Main Methods:

• Descriptive qualitative study utilizing photovoice methodology.
• Participants used photography to document learning challenges and solutions.
• Thematic and layered photograph analysis guided by empowerment education principles.

Main Results:

• Two main themes emerged: access to resources and clinical learning.
• Identified financial, academic, and accessibility barriers in rural nursing programs.
• Highlighted participant-determined solutions to enhance learning and well-being.

Conclusions:

• The study identified targeted resources to support rural nursing students' learning and well-being.
• Findings can inform strategies to improve rural nursing education and workforce retention.
• Further research is needed to compare rural and urban nursing student experiences.