Live Continuing Education Program for Adjunct Clinical Nursing Faculty

AIM The aim of the study was to evaluate a mentorship program for adjunct clinical faculty. BACKGROUND The nursing faculty shortage has been cited as the primary reason for decreased student enrollments. Clinical adjuncts hired to teach to fill this shortage need a competency-based orientation and formal mentorship. METHOD We piloted a live version of our previously online continuing education program for adjunct clinical faculty. The live program of eight modules based on three nursing competencies provided core knowledge and guidance in applying nursing education principles in clinical settings. RESULTS A convenience sample of 84 faculty members, including experienced faculty from three nursing programs, provided feedback on the program. Overall feedback was positive, but participants indicated a need for more continuing education, mentorship, and faculty development. CONCLUSION The program will continue to be offered to clinical faculty regionally with additional qualitative and quantitative evaluation.