Degree Type
Dissertation
Date of Award
2010
Degree Name
Doctor of Philosophy
Department
Educational Leadership and Policy Studies
First Advisor
Dan C. Robinson
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to illuminate the qualitatively different ways in which three nurses with an associate degree (ADN) and three nurses with a baccalaureate degree (BSN) experience, conceptualize, perceive, and understand their own nursing practice within the context of their educational background. Using a phenomenographic methodology for qualitative inquiry and data analysis, findings of this study revealed two main differences between the nursing practice of newly graduated ADNs and BSNs: (1) ADNs focused on their (a) education as the means and their practice as the end result, over which (b) the nurse has no ultimate control (external locus of control); whereas (2) BSNs focused on their (a) education and practice as an ongoing process, and how (b) the nurse him/herself is in control of his/her own learning processes and practice (internal locus of control).
Copyright Owner
Greta Marie Degen
Copyright Date
2010
Language
en
Date Available
2012-04-30
File Format
application/pdf
File Size
136 pages
Recommended Citation
Degen, Greta Marie, "A phenomenographic study exploring nursing education and practice" (2010). Graduate Theses and Dissertations. 11927.
https://lib.dr.iastate.edu/etd/11927
