A Research on Mutual Support for Nursing Students in Their Learning Activities

Abstract

Abstract: Purpose: The purpose of this study is to clarify the needs of nursing students for mutual support in their academic activities, and to examine the feasibility of mutual support by implementing and evaluating the "Consultation on practical training by senior students". Method: An anonymous online survey was conducted with first- to fourth-year students majoring in nursing at University A. The survey asked students whether they were experiencing difficulties in five categories of learning activity, namely, preparing for the National Nurse Licensure Examination, job-seeking, on-site training, preparing for examinations, and course registration. Students were also surveyed regarding their need for mutual supports in relation to these learning activities and whether they wanted to become a learning advisor to provide such support. In addition, we analyzed the evaluations and impressions of students who participated in the "Consultation on practical training by senior students". Results: Responses from 115 students were analyzed (valid response rate: 36.0%). A high percentage of students (89.6%) responded that they needed support from other students in relation to preparing for the national examination and job seeking. In contrast, low percentages of students expressed a desire to become a learning advisor to support with either of these categories of activity (48.7% and 47.8%, respectively). Discussion: The results suggest that it is important to provide support among students involved in career development from the first grade. In addition to support from seniors, it was also indicated that it is necessary to utilize mutual support among classmates.