Issues Influencing Success: Comparing the Perspectives of Nurse Educators and Diverse Nursing Students

Background: Research has shown that diverse nursing students report experiencing numerous issues that affect their progression through nursing programs. At the same time, research has also shown that nurse educators find it challenging to meet the needs of these students. What is missing is an analysis of how these two perspectives intersect. Method: A mixed-methods parallel study compared the perceptions of diverse nursing students (n = 13) and nurse educators (n = 22) regarding the learning environment in a baccalaureate nursing program. Results: Important differences existed between the students' and nurse educators' perspectives on hindrances to the students' success. Nurse educators saw the biggest hindrance as language proficiency, whereas students saw it as lack of relationships with faculty and classmates. Conclusion: Nursing programs should encourage faculty to build relationships with diverse nursing students not only because students appreciate them, but also because such relationships play a role in helping students overcome hindrances to success.