Adapting to change: Undergraduate nursing students' sense of belonging transitioning from online to in-person learning environments.

ABSTRACT

AIM: To examine undergraduate nursing students' sense of belonging as they transitioned from online to in-person learning. DESIGN: A mixed-method design employing a Sense of Belonging Survey and three open-ended questions. METHODS: Participants were first-year undergraduate nursing students who were back to in-person learning after 3 years of online learning during the pandemic. The survey was administered online in April 2023 using Qualtrics survey software. The survey data were analysed using descriptive statistics, and the open-ended questions were analysed by deductive thematic analysis. RESULTS: Seventy-five (48%) of the 155 potential participants responded to the survey. The mean score on the Sense of Belonging Survey was 74%, a positive finding suggesting that many participants feel that they 'belong' in the classroom. Three overarching themes were identified in response to the open-ended questions factors supporting students' sense of belonging, factors hindering students' sense of belonging and strategies for faculty, administrators and students to increase a sense of belonging. CONCLUSION: Understanding the factors that contribute to or hinder nursing students' sense of belonging during this transition will assist in developing strategies to mitigate challenges, foster a positive learning environment and enhance the overall sense of belonging among nursing students. IMPACT The first year of a nursing programme is crucial for student retention as students require tailored programmes and strategies to support their success. Examining and analysing the transition from online to in-person classroom settings is crucial to identifying strategies to enhance and support first-year students' sense of belonging and academic success. Exploring nursing students' experiences of belonging during transitions contributes to a more inclusive and equitable educational experience, fostering an environment where all students can thrive and succeed. PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION Not applicable.