Fostering Adaptability in the Future Nursing Workforce Through the Transformation of Nursing Education During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

This is a reflective report on the challenges experienced at an Australian nursing school, in which there was full continuation of degree delivery throughout the national lockdown period in mid-2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The authors describe the significant modifications to teaching methods and reflect on how this experience influenced learning, yet also helped develop essential nursing qualities among students. Anecdotal evidence is drawn from the authors’ academic roles as clinical education specialists, positions which involve teaching at the university as well as clinical supervision during students’ work integrated learning clinical placement periods. This unique perspective allows for insight into the impact of the pandemic on transference of student knowledge and skills to patient care in health facilities. There were indications that these modifications to teaching during the pandemic have, in some respects, impeded learning, yet have provided the benefit of fostering adaptability and resilience in these future nurses. Further analysis of modified nursing education in the context of a pandemic is needed to determine implications for the future nursing workforce, and strategies needed to address these. The authors recommend optimising this momentum of adaptability as an opportunity for innovation in tertiary nursing education for better preparedness of future nurses.