The experiences and perceptions of nurse educators of culturally and linguistically diverse nursing students' competence development – Qualitative study

BACKGROUND: Many countries are becoming increasingly culturally and linguistically diverse due to globalisation and migration. The global shortage of nurses and the consequent migration of nursing professionals is leading to increasing cultural and linguistic diversity in health care and nursing education. Nurse educators play a significant role in supporting nursing students' competence and working life readiness. RESEARCH AIM: To describe nurse educators' experiences and perceptions regarding competence and competence development of CALD nursing students. METHODS: The study was conducted using a descriptive qualitative approach utilising individual thematic interviews for data collection. A purposive sample consisting of 20 volunteer nurse educators from five higher education institutions was used for the purpose. Data was collected in semi-structured interviews based on a literature review of previous studies. The data were analysed using inductive content analysis. The COnsolidated criteria for REporting Qualitative research (COREQ) criteria were used in the reporting of this study. RESULTS: According to the content analysis, three main categories describing aspects related to the competence and competence development of CALD nursing students were identified: 1) educator's competence to support student's learning process and competence development, 2) development of supportive structures and safe learning environments, and 3) student-specific competence and competence development. The educators emphasised that setting clear goals, providing encouragement, having an open discussion, and student-centered approach to support their learning process and create a safe learning environment. CONCLUSIONS: Supporting the learning process of CALD nursing students and developing safe learning environments were considered essential for the development of competence. These areas must be supported by developing educators' pedagogical and cultural competence and providing sufficient resources for both students and educators. In addition, the curriculum must be designed to support these aspects.