Directions for outcome-based nursing education to improve clinical competency

Abstract

Purpose: This study critically examined the challenges of implementing an outcome-based nursing curriculum in Korea, focusing on the gap between academic learning and clinical competency. We proposed targeted strategies, including course credit structure adjustments, expansion of training sites, and the enhancement of clinical training models to better align with professional demands. Methods: As part of an “Innovative Nursing Education Initiative” funded by the Korean Nurses Association, a national survey was conducted by sending out an official letter to nursing department directors who were currently implementing outcome-based nursing programs. A total of 90 program managers responded, yielding a 44.3% response rate. Results: The responses were collected from 54 universities and 36 colleges. Three primary areas of concern were addressed: challenges in implementing an outcome-based curriculum (34.4%), issues related to course structure (37.8%), and clinical practice limitations (41.1%). Despite the adoption of an outcomes-based approach, the nursing curriculum remains heavily focused on national exam subjects for both theory and practice, highlighting a persistent gap between classroom learning and clinical application. Conclusion: This study identified key challenges in outcome-based nursing education across 90 institutions, including rigid course credit structures centered on national licensing exams, excessive clinical hours, and limited placement site availability, that compromise training quality. The study recommended course credit structure modifications, improvements in clinical education models, and the expansion of training site opportunities to address these issues.