Key factors contributing towards the establishment of an academy for short learning programmes at a university-based school of nursing

Abstract

Having established an academy for short learning programmes at a university-based school of nursing in response to the transformation in South African higher education and training, it was necessary to determine the effectiveness of this enterprise. In this article the second phase of the research is reported in which the key factors that contributed towards the effective establishment of the Academy are investigated through a qualitative descriptive design. In-depth individual interviews were conducted with the management team to explore the benefits, challenges, lessons learnt in the process, as well as their recommendations for establishing an academy in similar contexts. A qualitative content analysis was performed. Both an educational and a business component were identified as two strong pillars and quality management emerged as an overarching theme throughout the process. Being flexible and including other healthcare professions, as well as the corporate sector, contributed greatly to the success of the Academy. Ultimately, social responsiveness ostensibly ensures a healthy balance by contributing to the vibrancy of the Academy.

Keywords

• Continuing professional development
• Nursing education
• Short learning programmes