The Impact of the Power of NursingTM on Classroom Connectedness.

Abstract

BACKGROUND The coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic brought awareness to the benefits of creating cultures of belonging and connection in academic and professional settings. The Power of NursingTM (PON), a transformative course focusing on shared experiences, permits the exploration of classroom connectedness from a unique interpersonal perspective where teachers and students meet as equals. The purpose of this study is to measure senior-level nursing students' perceived connectedness following a 5-week PON program. METHOD Undergraduate senior-level nursing students' perceived connectedness was measured using the Connected Classroom Climate Inventory. Additionally, a qualitative thematic analysis was applied to responses post-course. RESULTS Results indicated a significant difference in students' perceived connectedness scores, while thematic analysis supported this finding with key themes of generous nonjudgmental listening, vulnerability, sharing experiences, and a want for connection enhancing meaningful learning. CONCLUSION The PON provides an excellent platform for cultivating connections with peers and mentors. Students can effectively utilize the insight gained from this course to form and build meaningful connections with their future patients. [J Nurs Educ. 2024;63(X):XXX-XXX.].