This study examines the appropriateness of using learner-centered teaching approaches with international nurses in New Zealand. A 12-week international nurse training program was designed by a large tertiary institution in New Zealand in response to the request of Shenzhen local hospital officials in China. Three groups of 30 Chinese nurses attended this program.
Method:
Responses from program participants were garnered through an online survey and a focus group interview. All qualitative data were analyzed using a thematic approach.
Results:
The study results highlighted that a positive aspect of the program was the collaborative decision making invited by the program coordinator about the learning goals, topics, and content. Participants reported how the shift in power from a teacher-directed program to a learner-centric approach helped them to engage more fully in the program and achieve greater, more successful individual outcomes.
Conclusion:
This project demonstrated the feasibility of implementing an international nursing training program using a culturally appropriate learner-centric teaching approach. The findings suggest that a learner-centric teaching style effectively addresses the diverse professional needs and cultural backgrounds of international nursing practitioners.