PLATO : a practice development approach to reconsider student learning partnerships

Background: This article explores the use of a practice development approach to support nursing students to engage fully in learning partnerships in clinical practice settings. Aim: To reflect, using the model proposed by Rolfe et al (2001), on the development of ‘PLATO’, an educational tool to support nursing students to explore their role in the development of learning partnerships in clinical settings. Conclusions: A practice development approach towards clinical learning partnerships can support an effective learning culture. As a result, nursing students can gain greater empowerment and develop enhanced responsibility for their learning