The Importance Of Belongingness In The Clinical Learning Environment For Health Professions Students: A Novel Research Study Focusing On Sonography Students.
Monday, April 8, 2024
4:54pm – 5:04pm
Location: 406
Authors: Kimberly Michael, University of Nebraska Medical Center
Most health professions programs have a clinical education component. It is in this learning environment that students move theory to practice and learn how to become a professional in their field of study. For health professions students, belongingness in the clinical learning environment contributes to the development of skills confidence and competence and plays a role in professional identity development. The lack of belongingness in the clinical setting leads to student anxiety, disengagement, and reduces motivation to learn. This study used the Belongingness Scale-Clinical Placement Experience questionnaire to investigate sonography students’ felt belongingness in the clinical learning environment. The novel findings contribute to the limited information published on belongingness in the clinical setting for sonography and health professions students. By gaining a better understanding of a student’s felt belongingness or isolation in the clinical setting, programs can work to improve this learning experience. Ultimately, belongingness in the clinical setting improves patient outcomes by graduating competent health care professionals who reduce workforce shortages and deliver quality patient care.