Why do nurses participate in continuing education? A meta-analysis

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Healthcare Professional Development
• Adult Learning Theory

Background:

• Continuing Nursing Education (CNE) is crucial for maintaining nursing competency and adapting to evolving healthcare practices.
• Understanding the drivers of CNE participation is essential for effective professional development program design.
• The Urbano and Jahns' model provides a framework for examining factors influencing adult learning and professional engagement.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize existing research on the factors influencing nurses' participation in Continuing Nursing Education (CNE).
• To test the applicability of the Urbano and Jahns' model in explaining CNE engagement among nurses.
• To identify key motivational and contextual factors driving nurses' commitment to lifelong learning.

Main Methods:

• A meta-analysis was conducted, synthesizing data from 22 independent studies.
• Studies were selected based on their examination of variables related to the Urbano and Jahns' model and CNE participation.
• Statistical methods were employed to aggregate findings and assess the strength of relationships.

Main Results:

• Motivational orientation was found to be a significant predictor of nurses' participation in CNE, supporting the Urbano and Jahns' proposition.
• Demographic variables and educational opportunities were identified as potential mediators influencing the extent of CNE engagement.
• The meta-analysis confirmed a consistent relationship between motivational factors and the pursuit of professional development in nursing.

Conclusions:

• Motivational orientation is a primary driver for nurses engaging in Continuing Nursing Education.
• While motivation is key, demographic factors and access to educational opportunities can modulate the level of participation.
• These findings have implications for designing targeted CNE programs that enhance nurse engagement and lifelong learning.