Background of the Study
Nursing education plays a pivotal role in shaping the quality of healthcare delivery. As the demand for competent healthcare professionals continues to rise, the effectiveness of nursing programs becomes a critical concern. The nursing curriculum is designed to equip students with the necessary theoretical and practical knowledge required to perform effectively in clinical settings. However, the satisfaction of nursing students with the curriculum remains a significant factor influencing both their academic performance and professional development. In Nigeria, nursing programs are primarily offered at tertiary institutions like the Nasarawa State College of Nursing, where the curriculum is intended to provide students with the skills and competencies needed to meet the healthcare needs of the society.
Student satisfaction with the nursing curriculum can significantly impact their overall learning experience, retention rates, and clinical competency upon graduation. As such, assessing students' satisfaction with the curriculum in Nasarawa State College of Nursing is essential for determining the strengths and weaknesses of the existing educational structure and identifying areas that may need improvement. Given the dynamic nature of healthcare systems and the evolving demands of the profession, a review of how well the curriculum aligns with current healthcare needs and expectations from both students and employers is vital.
Recent studies have highlighted the importance of aligning nursing curricula with contemporary healthcare challenges, including the integration of emerging healthcare technologies, patient-centered care, and interprofessional collaboration. The assessment of student satisfaction also provides insight into the factors contributing to student engagement and motivation, which are crucial for the development of effective teaching and learning strategies. Moreover, it can assist in addressing gaps in course content, teaching methodologies, and practical training, ensuring that nursing graduates are adequately prepared for the demands of their profession.
Statement of the Problem
Despite the growing demand for highly skilled nurses in Nigeria, there is limited research on the satisfaction of nursing students with the curriculum at various nursing institutions. Specifically, there is a lack of detailed assessments regarding student satisfaction at Nasarawa State College of Nursing. It is crucial to understand whether the nursing curriculum at this institution meets the expectations of students, faculty, and healthcare providers. The absence of such assessments may contribute to a misalignment between the curriculum and the needs of the healthcare system, affecting the quality of education and, consequently, the readiness of graduates for professional practice.
Students often face challenges such as inadequate resources, outdated teaching methods, and insufficient exposure to hands-on clinical experiences, which can negatively affect their learning outcomes and overall satisfaction. Without proper evaluation, these issues may persist, hindering the development of effective nursing professionals. Understanding the specific factors that influence student satisfaction, such as course content, teaching effectiveness, and clinical placements, is essential to address these gaps and improve the overall educational experience. This study aims to fill this gap by providing a comprehensive assessment of students' satisfaction with the nursing curriculum in Nasarawa State College of Nursing.
Objectives of the Study
1. To assess the level of satisfaction among nursing students with the current nursing education curriculum at Nasarawa State College of Nursing.
2. To identify the key factors influencing student satisfaction with the nursing curriculum.
3. To recommend strategies for improving the nursing education curriculum based on students' feedback.
Research Questions
1. What is the level of satisfaction among nursing students with the nursing education curriculum at Nasarawa State College of Nursing?
2. What are the key factors that influence student satisfaction with the nursing education curriculum?
3. How can the nursing education curriculum be improved based on the feedback from nursing students?
Research Hypotheses
1. There is a significant relationship between student satisfaction and the effectiveness of the nursing curriculum at Nasarawa State College of Nursing.
2. The quality of clinical placements significantly influences the level of student satisfaction with the nursing curriculum.
3. Student satisfaction with the nursing curriculum is significantly influenced by teaching methods and course content.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on nursing students enrolled at Nasarawa State College of Nursing. The assessment will primarily examine students’ satisfaction with the curriculum, teaching methods, and clinical experiences. However, the study may be limited by the sample size, as only a limited number of students may participate, and responses may be biased by personal preferences or experiences. Additionally, external factors such as institutional policies and healthcare trends may impact the findings but will not be the primary focus of the study.
Definitions of Terms
• Nursing Curriculum: A structured educational program designed to provide nursing students with the knowledge and skills required for professional practice.
• Student Satisfaction: The level of contentment and fulfillment students experience with various aspects of their educational experience, including course content, teaching methods, and resources.
• Clinical Placements: Practical training sessions where nursing students apply theoretical knowledge in healthcare settings, supervised by experienced professionals.
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