Nursing as an emerging academic discipline

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Academic Disciplines
• Higher Education Studies

Background:

• Nursing education is transitioning from specialized colleges to higher education institutions.
• There is an ongoing effort by nurse theorists and educators to establish nursing as a distinct academic discipline.
• The classification of nursing as an academic discipline faces challenges due to ambiguous definitions and underdeveloped elements.

Purpose of the Study:

• To discuss the challenges and issues surrounding the emergence of nursing as an academic discipline.
• To explore the ongoing debate classifying nursing as 'art,' 'science,' or a combination.
• To highlight the need for resolving definitional ambiguities for nursing's academic recognition.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and discussion of existing theories and educational trends.
• Analysis of the characteristics defining an academic discipline.
• Examination of the classification debates within nursing epistemology and practice.

Main Results:

• Nursing exhibits some characteristics of an academic discipline but lacks sufficient development in key areas.
• Persistent arguments classify nursing as 'art' or 'science,' hindering its unique identity.
• Nursing practice remains heavily influenced by established academic disciplines, lacking a distinct theoretical foundation.

Conclusions:

• Nursing must resolve fundamental debates regarding its essence and uniqueness to gain academic respect.
• Further development of its unique elements is necessary for nursing to thrive in higher education.
• Establishing nursing as a recognized academic discipline requires consensus on its theoretical underpinnings and identity.