Exploring the challenges and efforts implemented to improve the academic performance and success of nursing students at a university in the Western Cape

Publication date: Available online 1 February 2020Source: International Journal of Africa Nursing SciencesAuthor(s): Katlego Dumisani Trevor Mthimunye, Felicity Megan DanielsAbstractSatisfactory academic performance and success of undergraduate nursing students is a fundamental goal for schools of nursing worldwide. However, many students are confronted with various challenges that may hinder this endeavour. The purpose of this study was to explore and describe the challenges experienced by undergraduate nursing students at the identified school of nursing, regarding academic performance and success and the efforts implemented to overcome these challenges. A qualitative research approach with an explorative and descriptive design was implemented. The population (N = 1131) of the study included all undergraduate nursing students at the identified university. Stratified random sampling technique was implemented to select the study participants (n = 50). Six semi-structured focus group discussions were conducted. Data were analysed by means of thematic analysis. software. The findings of this study revealed that nursing students experience challenges related to: (1) living in an off- campus residence that is not conducive for learning, (2) participating in part-time paid employment, (3) the current structure of the curriculum, (4) inadequate academic and clinical support, and (5) unfavourable physical educational environment. Furthermore, the findings of this study revealed that...
Source: International Journal of Africa Nursing Sciences - Category: African Health Source Type: research