Learning needs analysis: the development of a tool to support the on-going professional development of multiple sclerosis specialist nurses.
Continuous professional development (CPD) is essential in modern day nursing. Learning needs analysis (LNA) is an important element of CPD. This paper describes the development of a LNA tool for multiple sclerosis specialist nurses. The tool contains an empirically developed LNA schedule and uses a blend of both subjective and objective exercises to help the nurse formulate a comprehensive learning plan. The tool is organised into four phases: phase 1, focuses on the knowledge and skills necessary to the fulfillment of work-based objectives; phase 2, involves a more in-depth assessment of particular areas of professional knowledge; phase 3, examines learning strategies; and phase 4, involves the development of a learning plan. The tool has been implemented throughout the UK via local trainers. While the tool was developed for a specialist nurse population the principles upon which it is based are likely to be transferable to other nursing contexts.
Forbes
Angus
A
Primary and Intermediate Care Section, The Florence Nightingale School of Nursing and Midwifery, King's College London, James Clerk Maxwell Building, Waterloo Road, London SE1 8WA, United Kingdom. angus.forbes@kcl.ac.uk
While
Alison
A
Ullman
Roz
R
D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D004509:Education, Nursing, Continuing / Q000458:organization & administration; D004511:Education, Nursing, Graduate / Q000458:organization & administration; D005163:Factor Analysis, Statistical; D017408:Guidelines as Topic; D006801:Humans; D017145:Models, Educational; D009103:Multiple Sclerosis / Q000451:nursing*; D020380:Needs Assessment / Q000592:standards*; D009720:Nurse Clinicians / Q000193:education* / Q000458:organization & administration / Q000523:psychology; D024802:Nurse's Role; D015402:Nursing Education Research; D010934:Planning Techniques; D017410:Practice Guidelines as Topic; D020377:Self Efficacy; D013192:Staff Development / Q000458:organization & administration; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires / Q000592:standards*; D006113:United Kingdom; D016526:Workload