Competency development training needs of novice nurse educators: A qualitative study guided by the Nursing...

This study aimed to examine the training needs for competency development of novice nurse educators using the Nursing Professional Development (NPD) practice model, with the purpose of providing evidence to inform training program development.

A descriptive qualitative approach was applied in accordance with the NPD practice model. Between April and May 2025, 29 nurse educators from a grade A tertiary teaching hospital were recruited using purposive sampling. Participants were organized into four focus groups and engaged in semi-structured interviews. Data were analyzed using directed content analysis with the assistance of NVivo 12.0 software.

The training needs of novice nurse educators were classified into three dimensions based on the NPD model. Within the input dimension, adaptation to teaching environments and analysis of learner needs were identified as key requirements for improving role clarity. Within the process dimension, there was a strong demand for systematic instruction in teaching theory, curriculum design, and resource development, as well as structured mentorship and communication mechanisms to address challenges related to role overload and limited visibility of outcomes. Within the output dimension, self-innovation and targeted empowerment were identified as necessary to advance team development and transform teaching practice, thereby promoting the integration of organizational culture and professional values.

Competency development training for novice nurse educators should align with the seven core role standards of the NPD model and be supported through appropriate pedagogical strategies. This requires the restructuring of resources during the input phase, implementation of multidimensional empowerment during the process phase, and the establishment of scientific evaluation systems during the output phase. These measures support the progression of novice nurse educators into competent NPD practitioners and enhance the overall quality of talent cultivation.