Scaffolding for learning and establishing a professional identity: A qualitative descriptive study of nursing students’ experiences of learning with a student-centered supervision model based on patient-oriented care during clinical placement

Abstract

The nursing profession is close to clinical practice and vital to the student's professional development. Innovative learning activities and models are sought to improve clinical placements. A student-centered supervision model based on patient-oriented care was introduced in a medical ward. The aim of this study was to describe nursing students’ experiences of learning with a student-centered supervision model based on patient-oriented care during their clinical placement. A qualitative descriptive study involving interviews with 12 nursing students analyzed through inductive qualitative content analysis was conducted in accordance with COREQ. The findings revealed that the nursing students viewed learning as personal, knowledge, and professional development. Their learning experiences can be seen as a process in which the scaffolding is gradually reduced in line with each student's ability to act independently and establish a professional identity. The model can enhance structure and support in the practice setting to maximize learning.