Socialization of the Nursing Student in a Professional Nursing Education Programme

Abstract

The theme of the conference is 'Accountability in Nursing Education.' The concept of accountability is being examined from several perspectives as it relates to preparation for the professional practice of nursing. The focus of this paper is directed to the accountability of nursing education for the nursing student. In particular, I wish to consider the accountability of a professional nursing education program for the socialization of the nursing student into the values of the profession. In this consideration, areas of accountability are identified. Professional socialization is defined as the process whereby the values and norms of a profession are internalized into one's own behaviour and concept of self. Professional values of commitment to the service of nursing, the dignity and worth of each person, commitment to education and autonomy are discussed. In the teaching and evaluation of values a framework by Reilly (19781) is examined. Strategies and techniques of teaching and evaluation are identified.