Enrolled nurses' experiences of conversion to first level

The study focuses on enrolled nurses' experiences of conversion and altered perceptions of self and others as they progress through a conversion course to first level. The experience involves a cultural transition that requires questioning of traditionally held values and adoption of a critical stance to professional practice. The transition mirrors current tensions within nursing as the prevalent direction of professionalisation in recent years has influenced the need for individual accountability that has implications for the self-regulation of practice. Thirty enrolled nurses participated in the study and were interviewed on three occasions as they progressed through specific parts of a conversion course. A grounded theory approach was utilised and important findings emerged in relation to the nature of learning from practice, the influence of gender and class on perceptions of academic ability and occupational standing and the development of self-agency through critical reflection. The findings challenge predominant scientific values within professional nurse education and support the validity of a situated learning approach for this group of experienced nurses. It is contended that, if opportunities for professional development and education are to be genuinely accessible, the diverse needs influencing learner participation must be considered. The main recommendations include the provision of accessible, experiential learning conversion courses for enrolled nurses and the development of a facilitative approach to professional development within nurse education.