Practical nursing students’ competence assessment in the workplace: A qualitative study

Virpi Välimaa; Anna-Maria Tuomikoski; Jonna Juntunen; Kristina Mikkonen

doi:10.3384/njvet.2242-458X.2515253

Authors

Virpi Välimaa University of Oulu, Finland; Vaasa University of Applied Sciences, Finland https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8500-7441
Anna-Maria Tuomikoski Oulu University Hospital, The Wellbeing Services County of North Ostrobotnia, Finland; University of Oulu, Finland; Medical Research Center Oulu, Oulu University Hospital & University of Oulu, Finland
Jonna Juntunen University of Oulu, Finland https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3195-8265
Kristina Mikkonen University of Oulu, Finland; Medical Research Center Oulu, Oulu University Hospital & University of Oulu, Finland https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4355-3428

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.3384/njvet.2242-458X.2515253

Keywords:

assessment, competence, practical nurses, students, vocational education, workplace

Abstract

The aim of the present study was to describe practical nursing students’, mentors’, and educators’ experiences and perceptions of student competence assessment in the workplace. The research data were collected using a qualitative research design which included interviews with eight practical nursing students, 12 mentors, and eight educators from three vocational institutions and four social- and health care organisations in Finland during November 2019–September 2020. The data comprised six focus group and five pair interviews. The collected data were subjected to content analysis. A successful assessment of competence in the workplace is based on easy-to-use and understandable assessment criteria. The competence demonstration should be student-centered and executed in the workplace in accordance with assessment criteria. An individual competence assessment discussion takes place in a peaceful space with sufficient time allotted for the process. The student has the opportunity for self-assessment, but the assessor and educator decide the grade. The successful assessment and demonstration of vocational competence positively affects a student’s vocational development.

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