Ward sister – teacher or facilitator? An investigation into the behavioural characteristics of effective ward teachers

Abstract

The ward sister role is increasingly coming under study. This paper summarizes research into learning in the ward environment. The study being one of several on a similar theme, to have been published in the past 2 years. The research concentrated in particular on the behavioural characteristics of trained nurses perceived as good teachers. Attitudes and perceptions of teaching and learning were investigated by interviewing trained and trainee nurses. The data concerning good teachers collected at interviews were developed into a questionnaire and the results factor analysed. In the third phase of the study trained nurse-trainee verbal communications were observed and analysed to determine any relationship between verbal behaviours and effective teaching. The findings of the study led to the conclusion that on the job teaching of nurses is a complex global act in which the role model presented to the learner has a powerful influence while it could not be said conclusively that a link between effective teaching and verbal behaviour was identified, a trend towards a more participative mode of communication was noted in two identified good teachers.