Developing the Nurse Professional and Nurse Education for the 21st Century

Abstract

Titled 'Developing the nurse professional and nurse education for the 21st century' this professional portfolio consists of a series of academic papers, literature reviews, supporting workplace research and scholarly activities linked to the focused theme. It has been compiled in association with completion of five coursework units of the Doctor of Education program through Edith Cowan University, Western Australia. The purpose of this portfolio was to establish what educational strategies would enhance the professional education for the nurse of the future. Through an examination of various contemporary educational theorists' work, a conceptual framework was developed using the concepts of Hargreaves (2003) as an overarching model to establish the current positioning of nursing and nursing education in the knowledge society. The preparation of a nurse who can function effectively and efficiently within a rapidly changing health workplace relies heavily on educational preparation that includes the development of knowledge, skills and attitudes appropriate for the role. This portfolio has examined critical aspects of nursing and nurse education in relation to the development of these necessary areas for future nurse professionals. Integrated workplace research on student readiness for self-directed learning, the importance of supportive clinical learning environments and student's perceptions of these environments, developing leaders and quality preceptors for students and the importance of information and technology for nurses have been reviewed and analysed in this portfolio. This portfolio has contributed to understanding the current positioning of nursing and nurse education and drawn together important educational strategies for Avondale College and other similar institutions to consider when developing future nursing programs.