title: Reasons for post registration learning: impact of the learning experience.
abstract: This exploratory study is the second stage of a multi-method approach to explore some of the reasons why registered nurses take part in formal and informal learning and higher education. Also under exploration is the extent to which their various learning experiences met their expectations. The sample consists of 25 registered nurses, randomly selected from a population (N=162) of 1st and 2nd Level nurses employed in public and private clinical settings, who have taken part in continuing education to obtain a Diploma or a Degree in Nursing. The data gathering was achieved by three focus group interviews. Formal learning included mandatory and non-mandatory in house teaching. Mandatory input was regarded as a self-protection measure by the employer, not related to personal development and with no perceived benefit on client care. Regarding the achievement of additional clinical competences, the overwhelming reason is to improve client care, although the motives of the employer and medical staff are viewed with some suspicion as a measure to saving doctors' time. Higher education pursuits appears to be triggered by a perceived need to increase the participants' level of existing knowledge in line with that of current students on placement, but adjustment to adult life transition period also appear to be an influencing factor. In terms of learning experiences, the relevance and quality of mandatory sessions came under criticism, whilst a measure of surprise was expressed at the unexpected benefits, at a personal and a professional level, gained by taking part in academic learning.
authors.affiliation: University of Hull, Faculty of Health and Social Care, Hull, UK. m.d.bahn@hull.ac.uk
authors.forename: Dolores
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Bahn
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000367:Age Factors; D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D002322:Career Mobility; D002983:Clinical Competence; D004508:Education, Nursing, Baccalaureate / Q000458:organization & administration*; D004509:Education, Nursing, Continuing / Q000458:organization & administration*; D004518:Education, Professional, Retraining / Q000458:organization & administration*; D017144:Focus Groups; D006301:Health Services Needs and Demand; D006801:Humans; D037141:Mandatory Programs; D008875:Middle Aged; D009042:Motivation; D015402:Nursing Education Research; D015404:Nursing Methodology Research; D009740:Nursing Staff / Q000193:education / Q000523:psychology; D020377:Self Efficacy; D012944:Social Support; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D014146:Training Support; D006113:United Kingdom