Nursing students’ experiences with the integration of flexible learning in the clinical skills centre

• Main Authors: Ahmad, Norfadzilah, Lee, Siew Pien, Abd Aziz, Zuraidah, Ismail, Zarina
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Malaysian Nurses Association 2023
• Subjects: RT71 Study and Teaching; RT82 Nursing As A Profession
• Online Access: http://irep.iium.edu.my/116356/7/116356_Nursing%20students%E2%80%99%20experiences%20with%20the%20integration.pdf; http://irep.iium.edu.my/116356/; https://mna.org.my/documents/jomna/jomna_volume16_2023.pdf

Background: In nursing education, flexible learning is highly regarded since it offers students a variety of readily accessible, customized learning opportunities. By successfully developing clinical competency outside of the conventional paradigm, this model guarantees that nursing students will have the abilities necessary to adapt to the constantly changing healthcare environment. Purpose: This study aimed to explore the nursing students’ experiences related to the implementation of flexible learning methods to learn clinical skills. Methodology: This research employed a descriptive qualitative research design and involved the participation of 11 undergraduate nursing students from the Kuliyyah of Nursing at the International Islamic University Malaysia, located in Kuantan, Pahang. The study sample was using purposive sampling methods. Data collection occurred through one-on-one interviews between 12th April 2023 and 19th April 2023. Results: Through a thematic analysis of participants' responses, this study unveiled four themes associated with various forms of flexible learning within clinical skills practice. These include Self-Directed Learning, Benefits, Barriers, and Challenges. Conclusion: The research recommends educators to use technology sensibly, particularly in creating instructional videos, to enhance student learning. The study identifies educators' proficiency with video technology as a barrier in nursing education, emphasizing the need for annual training. Flexible learning, including video-based instruction, offers advantages in skill acquisition, although students express concerns about feedback and prefer hands-on sessions. Balancing online and physical sessions is essential to nursing education, prioritizing students' well-being and capacity to learn