Design: Four research questions guided this qualitative investigation; 1) what is the nature of the learning that results from participation in a listserv, 2) what is the nature of the interaction between members, 3) how does participation in a professional listserv impact professional practice, and, 4)in what ways does participation in a professional listserv impact professional identity development?

Population: This qualitative case study included face-to-face interviews of ten advanced practice nurses who were members of a practice listserv. In addition to interviews, listserv documents were downloaded and analyzed for content. Four categories of interrelated findings were inductively derived from the data using the constant comparative method of analysis.

Findings: Findings suggest that significant learning impacting professional practice and identity occurs as a result of listserv participation. Varying levels of participation characterizes the nature of the interaction between the individual and the group. Professional practice is strengthened through the listserv, tacit knowledge becomes visible, leadership is fostered, and advocacy for clients and the profession is strengthened and professional identify is fostered through political activism, critical reflection, increasing professional power, and pride in the profession.

Conclusions: Three conclusions were reached; 1)communities of practice can be fostered in online environments, 2)online environments can enhance professional practice, and, 3) professional identity can be nurtured in an online community of practice.

Implications: Online communities of practice can be a source for continuing professional education of advanced practice nurses by promoting both professional practice and professional identity development.

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Back to 15th International Nursing Research Congress
Sigma Theta Tau International
July 22-24, 2004