From classroom theory to clinicalpractice: evaluating the impact of a post-registration course

The reasons behind the successes and failures of this continuing professional education initiative are examined, indicating that by adapting the pedagogic interpretation of the biosciences, it is possible to bridge the theory-practice gap.

Abstract

This paper is concerned with the translation of bioscience theory into clinical practice. The empirical data form part of an action research study undertaken to investigate the clinical outcomes of the bioscience component of a post-registration, day release diploma in nursing taught in a higher education institution. Evidence for the impact of the course on patient care was collected by academic diary, questionnaire and interview. The triangulated data indicated that by adapting the pedagogic interpretation of the biosciences, it is possible to bridge the theory-practice gap. As a result, some nurses related the substance of the lessons to their patients, in order to bring about improvements in care. This paper examines the reasons behind the successes and failures of this continuing professional education initiative.