Integration of a community-based engagement model of service learning in a master’s entry nursing program

Abstract

The future of nursing will include a growing presence in communities with less focus on hospital health care. In response to the need for community health focused learning a five-course community engagement experience model was designed for the master’s entry to nursing practice students in a nursing program. Community Engagement, defined as the process of working together in a collaborative spirit with groups of persons who are affiliated by geographic, special interest, or health care needs (CDC/ASTDR, 2006), is an ideal way for nursing students to fully understand the assets and needs of communities and develop goals for the health care concerns of specific communities. The goals of community engagement are to establish trust between clients, agencies, and the School of Nursing, to then develop mutual goals, enlist needed resources and improve learning and health outcomes in the community. This article describes the leveled objectives and course structure for the implementation of the community engagement pedagogy and model.