All in a day's work : student nurses' perceptions of their clinical learning experiences in a corporate workplace context
Date
2009-12
Authors
Volschenk, Mariette
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Stellenbosch : University of Stellenbosch
Abstract
Introduction: Exposure to the clinical learning environment forms an essential part
of nursing education. Individual student perceptions of this multi-dimensional context
can greatly influence their clinical learning experiences. Insight into these
perceptions may assist nurse educators in facilitating optimal learning outcomes.
Aim: The aim of this study was to promote an awareness of the possible impact of
various aspects of the clinical learning environment and nursing students’
perceptions thereof, on their learning experiences; and to generate guidelines for
facilitating optimal learning outcomes.
Methods: A qualitative, interpretive study, investigating nine individual second-year
nursing students, was undertaken in a private hospital in South Africa. Interview
transcripts were thematically analyzed.
Results: Four themes and eleven sub-themes emerged, highlighting the impact of
student nurses’ perceptions of the various aspects of the clinical learning environment on
their learning experiences.
Discussion: The impact of students’ perceptions of the clinical learning environment on
their learning experiences is discussed. Recommendations are provided for measures to
increase the focus on student-centered learning in the selected clinical context.
Conclusion: The challenge remains to best prepare students for the complexities and
dynamics of the workplace learning environment, while at the same time modifying this
environment to effectively meet students’ learning needs.
Description
Thesis (MPhil (Centre for Health Science Education))--University of Stellenbosch, 2009.
Keywords
Clinical learning experiences, Student nurses, Theses -- Health sciences education, Dissertations -- Health sciences education, Assignments -- Health sciences education