Improving student support using Placement Development Teams: staff and student perceptions

Abstract

Good mentoring is particularly important for student support. Where there are high student numbers in placement, this can adversely affect students' placement learning.

A framework to develop a clinical learning culture in health facilities: ideas from the literature

“…Learning for experienced staff members is through relevant education programs provided by educational institutions that offer opportunities to extend their knowledge, together with opportunities to engage with students and novices, which ultimately strengthen the knowledge base of the experienced staff member (Williamson et al. in press).…”

“…The information gained can assist managers to recognize the learning needs of their staff in clinical areas, for example, if staff do not readily engage with students and novices, the management team can be prompted to explore educational programmes and initiatives that can develop nurses skills to guide and facilitate the learning of others (Henderson et al. 2010b; Williamson et al. in press).…”

“…Interacting with students and novices can encourage experienced staff to reflect and explore their own practices (Grindel et al. 2003; Williamson et al. in press).…”

Perspectives on transfer of learning by nursing students in primary healthcare facilities

“…[8,12] In addition to emotional support, system, tangible and facilitative support should be offered in the workplace. [13] Supporting students in the workplace is not the responsibility of a single person because peers, learning facilitators, supervisors and clinical practitioners all contribute to the support of students. [8] A supportive learning climate is characterised by competent nurse clinicians with advanced clinical skills [14,15] who have open communication channels, a willingness to assist and teach students [15,16] and who genuinely respects students as novice colleagues.…”

AP: a journey from Absolutely Petrified to Awfully Proud

“…PD teams were introduced as a link between the educational establishments and the workplace, providing support to both students and mentors. Williamson et al (2011) examined the effectiveness of PD teams and found that they were pivotal in helping students achieve their goals. My PD nurse was always there to offer advice and support, which on occasions was invaluable.…”