Abstract

This study investigates the perceptions of student nurses regarding the actual and preferred hospital clinical learning environments in Buea Municipality, Cameroon. The clinical learning environment (CLE) plays a critical role in shaping the competencies, confidence, and professional development of nursing students. Understanding students’ perceptions of their current learning environments and their preferences can provide valuable insights for enhancing the quality of clinical education and ensuring that it meets the needs of future healthcare professionals.

The research employs a descriptive cross-sectional survey design, targeting student nurses enrolled in various nursing training institutions within Buea Municipality. Data were collected through structured questionnaires that assessed students’ perceptions of the actual CLE, including factors such as support from clinical staff, opportunities for hands-on practice, access to learning resources, and the overall learning atmosphere. The study also explored students’ preferred CLE, focusing on aspects they believe would enhance their learning experience, such as more supportive supervision, increased opportunities for practical skills development, and a more collaborative learning environment.

Preliminary findings suggest that while many student nurses appreciate the learning opportunities provided in their current CLE, there are notable gaps between the actual and preferred environments. Key areas of concern include inadequate supervision, limited access to essential learning resources, and a lack of structured feedback from clinical instructors. These factors contribute to a less-than-optimal learning experience and may hinder the development of essential nursing skills.

The study highlights the need for improvements in the hospital CLE to align more closely with student nurses’ preferences and learning needs. It recommends strategies such as enhancing the training and involvement of clinical staff in student education, increasing the availability of learning resources, and fostering a more supportive and feedback-oriented learning culture. By addressing these issues, the study aims to contribute to the creation of a more effective and student-centered clinical learning environment in Buea Municipality.

Keywords
Clinical learning environment, perceptions, student nurses, hospital, Buea Municipality, Cameroon, nursing education, clinical supervision, learning resources.