In nursing education, practical training, or “clinical training,” is crucial. A study explores a method for enhancing this training: PEERFEED-EClínico 1.0, a peer feedback model designed to develop student nurses’ metacognitive skills, those that go beyond rote knowledge and into self-awareness and self-regulation. The study highlights the model’s effectiveness in fostering critical competencies for future professional practice.
The study employed a constructivist case study approach, involving two stages:
- Stage 1: Development and Modeling: Researchers used a participatory action research (PAR) approach to develop and refine the PEERFEED-EClínico 1.0 model over two cycles.
- Stage 2: Validity and Feasibility: A quasi-experimental study (before and after) assessed the model’s effectiveness, including its teacher and student receptivity, and overall feasibility for implementation.
The research spanned 2018 to 2021 and involved 163 nursing students and 24 teachers/supervisors across various clinical training courses for 3rd and 4th-year undergraduate nursing students.
PEERFEED-EClínico 1.0: A Multi-Level Approach
The study introduces the PEERFEED-EClínico 1.0 model, featuring four key levels of implementation:
- Level 1: Self-Knowledge: Students focus on self-assessment, reflecting on their strengths, weaknesses, and learning styles.
- Level 2: Self-Reflection: Students engage in deeper reflection, analyzing their clinical performance and identifying areas for improvement.
- Level 3: Self-Regulation: Students develop strategies for self-regulation, taking ownership of their learning and adapting their approach based on feedback.
- Level 4: Interpersonal Skills: Students practice providing and receiving feedback effectively, fostering communication, teamwork, and collaboration.
Benefits for Students, Educators, and the Profession
The study highlights the positive impact of PEERFEED-EClínico 1.0:
- Enhanced Student Learning: The model promotes active student engagement and fosters the development of critical metacognitive skills.
- Improved Clinical Training: Peer feedback provides valuable insights that can enhance the effectiveness of clinical training experiences.
- Alignment with Educational Frameworks: The model aligns with international quality assurance standards in higher education.
- Contribution to Nursing Knowledge: The research contributes valuable insights to the field of nursing education and professional development.
This study goes beyond nursing education, offering valuable takeaways for educators across disciplines. By incorporating peer feedback and promoting metacognitive skills development, educators can create a more engaging and effective learning environment for all students.
António Ferreira, Beatriz Araújo, José Alves, Fernanda Principe, Liliana Mota and Sónia Novais. Peer Feedback: Model for the Assessment and Development of Metacognitive Competences in Nursing Students in Clinical Training. Educ. Sci. 2023, 13(12), 1219; https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci13121219