‘Letting go’: rationale and strategies for student-centred approaches to clinical teaching

To date the clinical practice portion of nursing education has tended to emphasise patient problems related to specific disease processes and the technical interventions needed to deal with those problems. Teacher-centred methods of education that place control of the process and content of learning with the teacher have seemed appropriate. However, the role and function of nursing is changing. Autonomy, independence and decision-making are more highly valued. In order that nurses develop these skills and abilities, a shift in focus in nursing education is required. This paper presents a rationale for more student-centred approaches to education. Strategies for clinical teaching will be described that emphasise collaboration between student and teacher. Suggestions designed to facilitate change in the roles of teachers and students will be offered.