Calling all ADN faculty for ideas...

I am an instructor in an ADN nursing program in TN. Any other ADN instructors using this forum? We could exchange ideas about today's students who appear VERY different than when I started even 4 years ago. I see frustration in the older faculty's manner of approach and could use not only some fresh ideas of deploying infromation but also coping strategies. The students overall continue to have the passion for the profession manifest it in a different manner making for an interesting challenge.[/quote']

Just want to extend a very warm AllNurses welcome to you, Ann! :balloons: I am an ADN instructor in a small community college in North Carolina. I also moderate the Nurse Educator Forum here. Please come join our discussions on our forum or initiate your own! Again, welcome to the board and I'm looking forward to your input :)

I am interested in your question. I ask that you be more specific. What differences do you see?

OK, I'll bite: I believe the students today do possess some significant differences overall from just a decade ago (when I was in nursing school). An increasing number of students are second-career (many already possess 4-year college degrees in another discipline or profession), are older, and have vast life experiences and wisdom. The richness of life experiences will help these students in many ways in their quest to become nursing professionals. Students are also much more diverse in values, beliefs, ideals, socioeconomic status, and demographics (we are seeing more males and minority students in nursing).

These students prefer a much more collaborative approach to education and already are highly motivated. They desire more of a voice and empowerment in their educational process.

These are just a few of my thoughts... is this what you had in mind, Ann?

I think that you hit the nail on the head! As a soon-to-be nursing student (Fall 2005, I hope), there are many differences than in the past. I know that from friends who are now attending nursing school, a good deal of the students are 30 or older, many with children and husbands (sometimes considered another child) and jobs. It is my hope that the nursing program realises that those of us that are returning to school are serious about our nursing education and don't want to be treated like children.

Kris

OK, I'll bite: I believe the students today do possess some significant differences overall from just a decade ago (when I was in nursing school). An increasing number of students are second-career (many already possess 4-year college degrees in another discipline or profession), are older, and have vast life experiences and wisdom. The richness of life experiences will help these students in many ways in their quest to become nursing professionals. Students are also much more diverse in values, beliefs, ideals, socioeconomic status, and demographics (we are seeing more males and minority students in nursing).

These students prefer a much more collaborative approach to education and already are highly motivated. They desire more of a voice and empowerment in their educational process.

These are just a few of my thoughts... is this what you had in mind, Ann?

I also noticed this in grad school.