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Learning Objective 1: The learner will be able to describe factors identified in student focus groups that may interfere with educational performance in the nursing program.
Learning Objective 2: The learner will be able to describe students' opinion of strategies for success which included work and work-life balance and study skills.
Purpose: To identify factors interfering with educational performance in the nursing program and identify and implement strategies to address and negate these factors.
Methods: A qualitative design using a convenience sample of students enrolled in the nursing program was used to obtain information about 1) general experience in the nursing program, 2) resources, strategies, or approaches for success, and 3) suggestions for change. A total of 23 students participated in semi-structured focus groups representing three of the four cohorts in progress during the fall 2010 semester. Students were verbally consented and used alias names during the sessions to provide confidentiality.
Results: Students in two of the groups described their overall experience in the nursing program as a positive learning experience. All three groups felt that first semester was less positive and identified disorganization, last-minute changes, faculty and co-instructor conflicts, and NCLEX-style testing as factors that resulted in feeling overwhelmed, confused, and stressed. Students preferred to learn in the skills laboratory by hands-on experience with feedback and guidance in order to gain confidence performing these skills. The groups offered helpful advice for students that included work and work-life balance as well as study skills.
Discussion: Understanding the student perspective is essential in identifying factors that interfere with educational performance in a nursing program. Results from focus groups were presented to department faculty in an effort to consider opportunities for change. One strategy which will be explored by faculty is to replace the standard orientation to nursing school with a one-week boot-camp prior to the start of the nursing program.
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