Perceived importance, role, satisfaction and challenges of academic advising among basic diploma nursing faculty in Oman: A mixed-method study

Abstract

Background: Faculty members are a core stone element in optimizing the effectiveness of academic advising, however, little is known about their perception of the goals of academic advising and their role as academic advisor. Aims: This study examined in-depth the academic advising system in the Omani Ministry of Health (MOH) nursing institutes from the nursing faculty perspective. Design: The study employed the mixed method research design of descriptive research. Results: The faculty members believe that this experience is rewarding but they reported that the system failed to explicitly define their roles. Lack of training and guidance in the conduct of the advising were also mentioned as primary challenges. They are likewise challenged with workload, time, students' issues and the academic advising policy. Conclusion: Academic advising policy requires a re-visit to maximize its benefit in optimizing the quality of education render to nursing students.