Nursing students perception of clinical learning environments:A qualitative study

Introduction: Nursing students’ perception of clinical learning environments is effective on decision making and selection of learning approach. Due to the importance of perception toward clinical learning environments, nursing students’ perception of this environment was examined in this qualitative study. Method: This qualitative study was performed using grounded theory. For data analysis, the glazer approach was used. Using purposeful sampling, 35 deep interviews were conducted and 1 focused group interview was conducted with 5 subjects. Continuous comparative analysis was performed simultaneously to data gathering using OneNote software. Results: It was found that a range of stimuli affect nursing students’ perception of clinical learning environments in the form of a 4-step process. These 4 steps consist of experiencing and processing primary expectations, experiencing and processing the programmed environment, experiencing and processing the clinical learning environment, and nurturing personal and professional talents and capabilities. Conclusion: The results of this study can help instructors and curriculum programmers in understanding the process of nursing students’ perception of clinical learning environments. An understanding of these perceptions can improve students’ perception of these environments and help to nurture their talents and personal capabilities. Keywords: Perception, Clinical learning environment, Nursing student