Nursing students’ perspectives of learning at clinical skills centers: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background

During nursing education, theoretical and practical knowledge must be integrated. Through learning activities conducted at Clinical Skills Centers, students practice and acquire clinical competencies.

Aim

To describe nursing students’ perspectives on learning activities trained at Clinical Skills Centers.

Methods

A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted. Students completed a questionnaire after completing the learning activities. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and summative content analysis, presented in three domains.

Results

The learning activities contributed to students learning by integrating theoretical knowledge with clinical practice in a safe environment. The importance of being supported during training was emphasized. However, the students identified areas for development concerning the educational structure, environment and materials. A majority of the students described how the learning activities had contributed to their learning but also helped them recognize their knowledge gaps.

Conclusions

Students’ learning requires knowledgeable instructors, structured demonstrations, adequate preparation, and realistic materials. To optimize the learning, the students suggested training in pairs. Including students’ perspectives when developing learning activities could be relevant and effective.