Nursing Students’ Reflective Experiences through Online Clinical Nursing Practicum Education
Purpose: This study explored the reflective experiences of nursing students through online clinical nursing practicum education. Its specific aims were to identify the reflection experiences that these students subjectively perceive as alternative learning for their clinical practicum because of COVID-19 situations and to identify the strengths and weaknesses of these reflective experiences. Methods: In-depth interviews were conducted face-to-face or by phone with 18 fourth-year nursing students from June to October 2021. Data were analyzed using a thematic analysis. Results: The following five themes were identified: (1) looking back and rethinking, (2) applying memories to prepare for the future practicum, (3) requiring efforts to seek and consider real knowledge, (4) using benefits from emotional relaxation and repetition, and (5) limitations of habitual writing without deep thinking. Conclusion: The results of this study suggest the need for the development of an online practical education that vividly reflects the diverse and practical clinical world, which enables the acquisition of new knowledge and changes while actively receiving support, if possible, in the difficult reflection process experienced by nursing students through a mutual communication method involving faculty and students.