Original Research Article
Year: 2020 | Month: January | Volume: 10 | Issue: 1 | Pages: 76-81
Social Accountability and Nursing Education in Kerala
Asha Raj S1, Kochuthresiamma Thomas2, Jolly Jose3
1MSc(N), PhD scholar, Government College of Nursing, University of Kerala Thiruvananthapuram
2Emeritus Professor Government College of Nursing, Thiruvananthapuram
3Professor, Government College of Nursing, Thiruvananthapuram
Corresponding Author: Asha Raj S
ABSTRACT
Introduction: Health care education globally emphasis on community engagement activities and family health care.
Objective: This paper explores key informants’ perspectives on social accountability and nursing education in Kerala.
Methods: A qualitative exploratory research was done among key informants from three zones of Kerala state, north, central and south zone respectively. Using a snowballing sampling technique, 60 participants were selected purposively on the basis of their expertise or knowledge of the research area to conduct in-depth interviews followed by 10 focus group discussions among nurse educators and students. The interviews were analysed using thematic analysis. Focus group discussions helped to explore controversial issues.
Results: Main themes derived were (1) Inadequate experience in curriculum, (2) Students selection (3) lack of capacity building (4) Shortfall in community participation (5) Lack of community oriented programmes and (6) Career opportunity. Key informants criticized the following: the inertia observed among the faculty, lack of autonomy, outdated curricula and lack of preparedness of nurse educators and nursing students based on health needs.
Conclusion: Social accountability is an important component for community engagement, and attention to be paid to incorporate a responsive curricula, faculty preparedness, and appropriate student recruitment by open and effective communication with communities.
Key words: Social accountability, nursing education in Kerala.