NONPF 38th Annual Conference
The Use of Online Reflective Journaling in Clinical Practice
BACKGROUND: Integrating theory with clinical practice presents an educational challenge in APN curricula. Utilizing clinical learning as a teaching strategy has not received the attention or merit it deserves. Reflection on practice and the enhanced self-awareness that occurs are important ways to improve clinical competence (Carnegie Report, 2010). Journaling assists students in organizing and consolidating their thinking by considering new ideas and concepts. Nursing as a practice discipline supports journaling as a means to reflect on experiences, attitudes, and decisions when confronted with a unique clinical issue.
Method: This project of online reflective journaling was incorporated into the final APN role course. Eleven graduate students completed the journaling. Every 2 weeks each student selected a role issue or a problem that occurred in clinical practice. Using current evidence, the students posted the issue or problem in the discussion board drawing conclusions. Faculty then reframed, reflected and engaged in one-on-one dialogue with the students. Additionally, students examined contextual aspects of their thoughts and feelings, allowing them to participate in the transformative learning process.
Outcomes: Evaluation of PNP students demonstrated the use of journaling allowed for 1) improved understanding of clinical practice; 2) increased growth in the areas of professionalism; 3) further understanding of the role of the APN, and 4) self discovery in clinical practice. Evaluations by students reinforced that an environment was created where social responsibility and cultural awareness were examined in a non-threatening manner.
Evaluation: Preliminary data revealed that students noted an increased awareness of their decision making skills. They also found that through the postings and responses of other students they were able to examine and transform their viewpoints and clinical perceptions.