Independent study as a learning experience in baccalaureate nursing programs: perceptions and practices

While nursing education recognizes the need for independent study in baccalaureate nursing education, the literature suggests that nursing educators hold diverse views on the meaning, purpose, and conduct of independent study. This study reports the findings of a survey of nursing faculty designed to learn more about the perceptions and practices of independent study in baccalaureate nursing education. A mailed questionnaire was used to gather information from a random sample of nursing faculty at 40 baccalaureate nursing programs in the South. Fifty-one percent of the 441 faculty members responded. Of the 219 respondents, 95% reported independent study in their schools; however, wide variation in practices and faculty perceptions was evident. Limitations in curriculum design, available resources and time were influential factors in provision of opportunities for independent study. The lack of consensus suggests that faculty examine independent study options so that efforts may be better coordinated.