Background of the Study
Reflective practice is a method of self-assessment and introspection that allows nursing students to critically evaluate their experiences, actions, and decisions to improve future performance (Fowler & Gilligan, 2024). In nursing education, reflective practice encourages students to analyze their clinical experiences, identify areas for improvement, and develop critical thinking skills essential for effective patient care. It is considered a core element of professional development, as it fosters a deeper understanding of clinical reasoning, enhances decision-making, and promotes lifelong learning (Marton & Svensson, 2023).
At Federal University, Birnin Kebbi, nursing students are encouraged to engage in reflective practice as part of their clinical training. This process is believed to enhance their ability to think critically, solve problems, and apply theoretical knowledge in clinical settings. However, there is limited research on how reflective practice specifically contributes to the development of critical thinking skills among nursing students. This study aims to evaluate the role of reflective practice in developing critical thinking skills in nursing students at Federal University, Birnin Kebbi.
Statement of the Problem
Despite the widespread use of reflective practice in nursing education, its impact on students’ development of critical thinking skills has not been thoroughly evaluated, particularly in the Nigerian context. At Federal University, Birnin Kebbi, reflective practice is emphasized in the nursing curriculum, yet its effectiveness in fostering critical thinking among students remains unclear. Without comprehensive research into the role of reflective practice, nursing educators may struggle to optimize this tool for improving students' clinical reasoning and decision-making abilities.
Objectives of the Study
1. To evaluate the role of reflective practice in developing critical thinking skills among nursing students at Federal University, Birnin Kebbi.
2. To assess how reflective practice enhances students’ ability to apply theoretical knowledge to clinical practice.
3. To explore the factors that influence the effectiveness of reflective practice in developing critical thinking skills.
Research Questions
1. How does reflective practice contribute to the development of critical thinking skills among nursing students at Federal University, Birnin Kebbi?
2. In what ways does reflective practice enhance nursing students’ ability to apply theoretical knowledge in clinical settings?
3. What factors affect the effectiveness of reflective practice in developing critical thinking skills among nursing students?
Research Hypotheses
1. Reflective practice significantly contributes to the development of critical thinking skills among nursing students at Federal University, Birnin Kebbi.
2. Nursing students who engage in reflective practice demonstrate a greater ability to apply theoretical knowledge in clinical settings compared to those who do not.
3. There is a significant relationship between the level of reflective practice and the development of critical thinking skills among nursing students.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study focuses on nursing students at Federal University, Birnin Kebbi, specifically evaluating the role of reflective practice in developing critical thinking skills. The findings may not be generalizable to other nursing institutions or countries with different educational structures. The study is also limited to examining reflective practice within clinical education and does not account for other factors that may influence students’ critical thinking skills.
Definitions of Terms
• Reflective Practice: A process of self-reflection where nursing students critically evaluate their clinical experiences to improve their decision-making and performance.
• Critical Thinking: The ability to analyze, evaluate, and apply knowledge to solve complex clinical problems and make informed decisions in patient care.
• Nursing Students: Individuals enrolled in the nursing program at Federal University, Birnin Kebbi, pursuing a nursing degree.
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