“It is much more real when it comes from them”: The role of experts by experience in the integration of mental health nursing theory and practice
Brenda Happell, Shifra Waks, Áine Horgan, Sonya Greaney, Fionnuala Manning, John Goodwin, Julia Bocking, Brett Scholz, Elisabeth Hals, Arild Granerud, Rory Doody, Chris Platania‐Phung, Martha Griffin, Siobhán Russell, Líam MacGabhann, Jarmo Pulli, Annaliina Vatula, Graeme Browne, Kornelis Jan van der Vaart, Jerry Allon, Einar Bjornsson, Heikki Ellilä, Mari Lahti, Páll Biering
Abstract
PURPOSE: To examine nursing students' perceptions of Experts by Experience impact on theoretical and practical learning. DESIGN AND METHODS: Qualitative exploratory study involving focus groups with undergraduate nursing students from five European countries and Australia. Data were analyzed thematically. FINDINGS: Participants described positive impacts as: bridging the theory and practice gap through first-hand experience, including sub-themes: bringing theory to life; can't be taught any other way, and innovative teaching methods fueling curiosity. RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE: Integrating theory and practice is key for quality mental health nursing practice. Experts by experience can potentially contribute to reducing this enduring gap.