title: Evaluating a continuing education program.
abstract: This study evaluated an innovative program designed to assist registered nurses to achieve professional competency in a role that was introduced in the career structure and was new to Western Australian nurses. Quantitative and qualitative methods were used to determine formative and summative aspects of the program. The framework for data processing was Stake's Countenance Model. Data were collected from participants and preceptors over one year. A variety of instruments were used including interviews, questionnaires, document reviews and observations. Findings indicate that the program facilitated development of professional behaviours and that the participants found it worthwhile. The method of evaluation was able to demonstrate that the program outcomes were logically and empirically contingent upon transactions and antecedents and were congruent with the program's intentions.
authors.forename: S
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Williams
mesh_terms: D002322:Career Mobility; D002983:Clinical Competence / Q000592:standards; D004509:Education, Nursing, Continuing / Q000379:methods / Q000592:standards*; D004650:Employee Performance Appraisal / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D016294:Models, Nursing; D009741:Nursing Staff, Hospital / Q000193:education* / Q000592:standards