The impact of clinical simulation on learner self-efficacy in pre-registration nursing education

Pike, T. and O'Donnell, V. (2010) The impact of clinical simulation on learner self-efficacy in pre-registration nursing education. Nurse Education Today, 30(5), pp. 405-410. (doi: 10.1016/j.nedt.2009.09.013)

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Abstract

Clinical simulation is becoming increasingly popular in pre-registration nursing education. Incorporating teaching and learning strategies that enhance learner self-efficacy will theoretically improve clinical competence (Bandura, 1986, 1997). This paper presents the findings of a study that aimed to explore the impact of clinical simulation on self-efficacy beliefs amongst pre-registration nurses. A preliminary study (Pike, 2008) used a pre- and post-test design to measure learner self-efficacy before and after a clinical simulation session. Qualitative responses to questions on the post-test questionnaire provided themes to explore in a focus group interview with a convenience sample of nine participants. Thematic content analysis of the interview highlighted two principal findings. Firstly, students described low levels of self-efficacy with regards to communication skills, an area identified as a priority within pre-registration nursing education (NMC, 2007a). Second, students highlighted the need for learning experiences within clinical simulation to be more authentic, to improve the theory to practice gap. It is argued by incorporating strategies within clinical simulation that enhance learner self-efficacy, overall clinical competence will be improved. Suggestions for how pedagogical approaches may be developed within clinical simulation are discussed, whilst acknowledging the limitations of the small scale nature of the study.

Item Type:Articles
Keywords:Simulations, Self-efficacy, Education, Nursing
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:O'Donnell, Dr Victoria
Authors: Pike, T., and O'Donnell, V.
College/School:College of Social Sciences > School of Education
Journal Name:Nurse Education Today
Publisher:Elsevier
ISSN:0260-6917

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