The Student Voice: Perceptions of Durable Learning.

Abstract

Durable learning is the teaching/learning methods that result in retained knowledge that can be transferred to practice. There is limited research on durable learning in nursing education (NE). The purpose of this study was to understand the perceptions of how learners acquire and retain knowledge. Nursing students and recent graduates were recruited from 2 large universities. Focus groups (n=7) were audio-recorded, and transcripts were analyzed. Thematic analysis of learners' perceptions revealed (1) effective learner-initiated techniques, (2) effective instructor-initiated techniques, (3) learner-initiated techniques that were not effective, and (4) instructor-initiated techniques in the classroom, clinical practice, and simulation that were not effective. Additional research is needed to understand faculty perspectives on durable learning techniques and their effectiveness. Findings from student, graduate, and faculty perspectives will guide the development of a validated, reliable tool to evaluate durable learning in NE.