PsyConnect: Constructing Layered Engagement for Optimal Learning in Clinical Education

BACKGROUND: The increasing volume of nursing students placed in shrinking numbers of clinical sites has resulted in clinical overcrowding in behavioral care settings. Overcrowding has resulted in the deterioration of the clinical teaching and learning experience for students, faculty, and nurses. PsyConnect is a layered, multiplatform engagement learning experience that uses multiple teaching methods to increase student engagement, reduce inpatient overcrowding, maximize learning opportunities, and improve teaching and learning experiences. METHOD: PsyConnect was implemented in a baccalaureate mental health nursing course during one term. Investigators surveyed students, faculty, and nurses who attended campus simulation. Data analysis included measures of central tendency and Pearson correlation coefficient. RESULTS: Setting rotations, clinical checklists, off-unit learning modules, and simulation with staff nurses improved educational experiences, as reported by students, faculty, and participating nurses. CONCLUSION: The PsyConnect evaluation suggested that layered, multiplatform, engagement-based learning addressed critical barriers to high-quality, clinical education. [J Nurs Educ. 2016;55(9):541-543.].