The practice-based small group learning approach: Making evidence-based practice come alive for learners

SummaryThis paper reports the study of a pilot learning programme for the Continuing Professional Development of Practice Nurses (PNs) in Scotland. Two PN groups used the practice-based small group (PBSG) approach to learning, which is designed to encourage learning relevant to patient problems faced in day-to-day practice. Learners kept a log of their experiences of engaging in PBSG learning for three consecutive meetings. Data was also collected through interviews. The findings detail the motivation for joining the PBSGs, group dynamics and the development of cohesion, factors influencing participation in group-discussions and the nature of learning that took place in the groups. PNs from both groups reported that discussions led to habitual practices being challenged but without hostility, and that various sources of information were considered. The suitability of PBSG learning to promote evidence-based nursing practice is discussed.