The multiple assignment: an effective alternative for laboratory experiences

The purpose of the study was to test out the efficacy of both the Traditional and the Multiple Assignment approaches to the laboratory experiences of students of nursing. The subjects were 22 students enrolled in the first quarter of an Associate Degree Nursing Program and placed in either the multiple or the traditional laboratory assignment. Results showed the students in the peer experience to be superior in overall performance on tests of Nursing Knowledge, Concept Usage and Self-Esteem. It was concluded that the Multiple Assignment approach to laboratory experiences is a viable and useful method for the education of student nurses.