A socio-cultural approach to learning in the practice setting

When practice precedes theory – A mixed methods evaluation of students' learning experiences in an undergraduate study program in nursing

“…This implies a view of learning that is not merely about theories, concepts and principles to be covered and understood, but also about having a clear understanding of what it means to gain experience and to perform in various professional situations (Biggs and Tang, 2007). If constructivists consider learning to be an individual mental process, followers of socio-cultural approaches consider learning to be contextual and integrated with social participation (White, 2010). Thus, the core of nursing education is to encourage an integration of theoretical knowledge with practical skills, e.g.…”

Becoming a professional: What is the influence of registered nurses on nursing students' learning in the clinical environment?

“…The role of clinical staff in influencing student learning is reflected in the literature with significant research exploring the role of registered nurses, mentors, peers and others in supporting nursing student learning in the clinical environment (Barker, 2006, Myall et al, 2008, Shakespeare and Webb, 2008, Ousey, 2009, White, 2010. There is within the literature, limited examination evident relating to if and how established and permanent clinical team members have an influence and impact on nursing students' learning.…”

Making physiological birth possible: Birth at a free-standing birth centre in Berlin

“…Research in different settings concerning learning through participation has found that it is more than just 'learning by doing' (White, 2010). It is a way of creating an identity in a social context while becoming a member of the profession for which one is training- Lave and Wenger (1991) in Fuller et al (2005) and White (2010).…”

“…It is a way of creating an identity in a social context while becoming a member of the profession for which one is training- Lave and Wenger (1991) in Fuller et al (2005) and White (2010). In midwifery training in Germany, students spend the majority of their practical training in birth assistance in hospital delivery rooms, with only a 6-week internship spent with an independent midwife or in a free-standing birth centre (Brauen et al, 2004).…”