Implementing change in nursing education.

Abstract

Nursing education faces a period of change within the next decade. Blueprints for educational change have been developed in the United Kingdom, Australia and Canada. Change in education needs to be planned rather than a reaction to internal or external pressures. Blueprints for education should extend beyond the entry to practice level and include specialisation, baccalaureate and graduate education. A plan for practice for the future should encompass both hospital and community based health care. Nursing practitioners as well as nurse educators need to be involved in educational planning. In light of the changing student body and societal needs, consideration must be given to the development of a variety of models for nursing education. Prior to instituting wholesale change, pilot projects need to be developed and tested. Plans for preparing adult educators competent in the use of modern technology, are a necessary adjunct to new programme development. Education also needs to be available to the practising nurse to enable professional growth. Professional associations must play a role in educating nurses, other professionals and consumers of nursing care on the changing roles and functions of the nurse, as movement is made toward the goal of 'Health For All By The Year 2000'.