Perceptions of Authenticity in Pathophysiology Coursework Among Graduate Entry and Traditional Master's Nursing Students

• In Event: 56.082 - Poster Session 12
  In Poster Session: 56.082-8 - Poster Session: Education and Assessment in the Professions

Abstract

Graduate entry nursing programs at the master’s level enhance the diversity of talent and increase the number of males in a traditionally female nursing workforce. This exploratory study sought to describe the perceptions of graduate entry and traditionally educated nursing students regarding the authenticity of a case study assignment in an advanced pathophysiology course and explore differences in perceptions between groups. Overall, students perceived the assignment as authentic. Although no significant differences in perceptions were found between groups, graduate entry students consistently rated the assignment lower in authenticity than traditional master’s students. Graduate entry student responses also indicated more self-confidence in their understanding of the clinical reasoning process of advanced practice nurses.

Author

• Joni Tornwall, The Ohio State University - Columbus