title: Linking learning and confidence in developing expert practice.
abstract: This paper presents findings from a recent PhD grounded theory study exploring the practice development role of graduate specialist practitioners. A key finding within this theory is the influence of learning and confidence on the practitioner journey. The concept of confidence emerged repeatedly throughout the analysis and can be characterized as a motivational driver, a consequence of learning and gaining respect, and a condition for graduate specialist practitioners' moving on to impact in practice development. Analysis of the concept of confidence as it influences practice is limited in existing literature. This article seeks to address this gap by illustrating the centrality of learning and confidence in the development of expert specialist practices. It is anticipated that these findings will resonate with the experiences of clinicians and faculty internationally and heightened awareness of consequences of developing confidence can be utilized to strengthen the impact of a wide range of nursing programs.
authors.affiliation: Glasgow Caledonian University. k.currie@gcal.ac.uk
authors.forename: Kay
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Currie