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Understanding the essential elements of work‐based learning and its relevance to everyday clinical practice
Author(s) -
WILLIAMS CAROLINE
Publication year - 2010
Publication title -
journal of nursing management
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.925
H-Index - 76
eISSN - 1365-2834
pISSN - 0966-0429
DOI - 10.1111/j.1365-2834.2010.01141.x
Subject(s) - active learning (machine learning) , work (physics) , open learning , experiential learning , reflective practice , action learning , relevance (law) , psychology , knowledge management , medicine , cooperative learning , pedagogy , computer science , teaching method , artificial intelligence , mechanical engineering , law , political science , engineering
williams c. (2010) Journal of Nursing Management 18, 624–632
Understanding the essential elements of work‐based learning and its relevance to everyday clinical practice Aim To critically review the work‐based learning literature and explore the implications of the findings for the development of work‐based learning programmes. Background With NHS budgets under increasing pressure, and challenges to the impact of classroom‐based learning on patient outcomes, work‐based learning is likely to come under increased scrutiny as a potential solution. Evidence from higher education institutions suggests that work‐based learning can improve practice, but in many cases it is perceived as little more than on‐the‐job training to perform tasks. Evaluation The CINAHL database was searched using the keywords work‐based learning, work‐place learning and practice‐based learning. Those articles that had a focus on post‐registration nursing were selected and critically reviewed. Key issues Using the review of the literature, three key issues were explored. Work‐based learning has the potential to change practice. Learning how to learn and critical reflection are key features. For effective work‐based learning nurses need to take control of their own learning, receive support to critically reflect on their practice and be empowered to make changes to that practice. Conclusions A critical review of the literature has identified essential considerations for the implementation of work‐based learning. A change in culture from classroom to work‐based learning requires careful planning and consideration of learning cultures. Implications for nursing management To enable effective work‐based learning, nurse managers need to develop a learning culture in their workplace. They should ensure that skilled facilitation is provided to support staff with critical reflection and effecting changes in practice. Contribution to New Knowledge This paper has identified three key issues that need to be considered in the development of work‐based learning programmes.