Learning Objective #1: identify how to partner with a community organization to assist beginning nursing students in learning pediatric content

Learning Objective #2: describe student learning and community outcomes from a student experience with a community organization

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Background: There is an acute shortage of pediatric clinical experiences for community college nursing students due to the limited number of facilities in relation to the increased number of students. Nursing students need to have experiences related to growth and development and teaching of children. Nursing students assisting Girl Scouts to meet the criteria for merit badges may be an alternative clinical learning experience. Method: An exploratory study focused on the learning outcomes of first year nursing students who assisted Girl Scouts in obtaining merit badges (Women's Health, Child Care, Family Living, Nursing Explorations and Emergency Preparedness). A convenience sample of 28 students organized into groups created specific merit badge teaching plans that reflected teaching and growth and development principles. Students organized the community event and taught visiting Girl Scout troups. The nursing students completed a learning survey using Likert scales and open ended questions. Girl Scouts and Leaders completed surveys.   Analysis: Survey results were tallied and open ended questions reviewed for themes. Students increased knowledge related to teaching and growth and development. Incidental findings were related to understanding of group dynamics and challenges in teaching. Scout and Leader evaluations were positive.   Implications: Partnering with Girl Scouts USA (GSUSA) is an option for assisting students in meeting learning outcomes in a Child Health Nursing Course. This project promoted outreach to the wider community by involving the GSUSA organization, leaders, children, and parents into a college academic program. This was a mutually beneficial project for the college in helping to develop important community alliances.