Exploring flexible learning in clinical skills teaching: perspectives from nursing educators and students

Ahmad, Norfadzilah and Wan Mamat, Wan Hasliza and Lee, Siew Pien and Mohamad Shariff, Nurasikin and Ahmad, Norzehan and Vionalita, Gisely and Mitchell, Gary (2026) Exploring flexible learning in clinical skills teaching: perspectives from nursing educators and students. Journal of the Liaquat University of Medical and Health Sciences, SPECIAL ISSUE 8TH Aceh Int. Nurs. Conf (June 2026). pp. 19-27. ISSN 1729-0341 E-ISSN 2309-8627

PDF - Published Version Restricted to Repository staff only Download (1MB) | Request a copy

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: This study explored how flexible learning (FL) is implemented in clinical nursing education across Malaysian higher education institutions, focusing on the perspectives of nurse educators and nursing students. METHODOLOGY: A qualitative research design was employed, utilising semi-structured, one-to-one interviews with 39 purposively selected participants, 21 nurse educators and 18 nursing students from six institutions. Interviews were conducted either face-to-face or online, recorded with consent, transcribed verbatim, and analysed thematically. RESULTS: Three overarching themes were identified: Theme 1: Advantages of Flexible Learning; Theme 2: Challenges in the Implementation of Flexible Learning; and Theme 3: Strategic Preparedness and Institutional Support. Educators valued efficiency, professional growth, and innovation, while students emphasised autonomy and preparedness. However, both groups highlighted digital inequities, workload intensification, resource misalignment, and insufficient feedback. Institutional strategies were often reactive, leading to variable experiences. Both groups endorsed blended learning as the most effective model, balancing flexibility with essential hands-on practice. CONCLUSION: FL enhances standardisation, innovation, and learner autonomy, but its sustainability requires robust institutional infrastructure, alignment between digital and clinical components, and feedback-rich pedagogical approaches. Blended models that integrate preparatory digital resources with structured face-to-face training offer the most effective pathway for developing competent and confident nursing graduates.

Item Type:	Article (Journal)
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Flexible Learning, Nursing Education, Clinical Skills, Blended Learning, Digital Pedagogy
Subjects:	R Medicine > RT Nursing > RT71 Study and Teaching R Medicine > RT Nursing > RT82 Nursing As A Profession
Kulliyyahs/Centres/Divisions/Institutes (Can select more than one option. Press CONTROL button):	Kulliyyah of Nursing Kulliyyah of Nursing > Department of Professional Nursing Studies Kulliyyah of Nursing > Department of Special Care Nursing
Depositing User:	Ms NORFADZILAH AHMAD
Date Deposited:	15 Jul 2026 07:50
Last Update:	15 Jul 2026 07:50
Queue Number:	2026-07-Q3950
URI:	http://irep.iium.edu.my/id/eprint/129773

Actions (login required)

View Item