Running head: BSN STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOME 2

BSN Student Learning Outcome 2:

Proactively Seek out Learning Experiences that Fulfill Professional Development and Practice
Goals.
Megan J. Stucki
Dixie State University

BSN STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOME 2

Abstract
Several characteristics are essential in the pursuit of professional goals and professional
development in the field of nursing. These include, but are not limited to: an industrious nature,
dedication to nursing excellence, and a desire to learn. Other factors play into the advancement
of skilled nursing practice; such as, trainings offered by workplace/ employer, outside education
or training, continuing education courses, opportunities to pursue advanced education, and realworld nursing experience. The degree of proactivity possessed by an individual will determine to
what extent professional development will accrue, as well as facilitate goal achievement.

BSN STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOME 2

BSN Student Learning Outcome 2:

Proactively Seek out Learning Experiences that Fulfill Professional Development and Practice
Goals.
A proactive nature may not come easily or naturally to someluckily this trait can be
learned. As it is developed it becomes a great asset to the possessor. By definition, being
proactive entails acting rather than reacting. This denotes the ability to remain in control, or at
the very least adapt to change efficiently. It also involves a degree of anticipatory ability and
self-initiated actions.
Achievement of professional development and practice goals requires a great deal of
proactivity, in addition to, training facilitated by a workplace, opportunities to further formal or
informal education, and nursing experience. Most of these must be actively sought after to attain
any benefit. Along with the proactive nature, experience, and opportunity, every individual must
possess a laser-like focus on their end goal in order to achieve it.
Proactive-smoactive
People are always blaming their circumstances for what they are. I dont believe in
circumstances. The people who get on in this world are the people who get up and look for the
circumstances they want, and if they cant find them, make them.
- George Bernard Shaw
It seems this characteristic, like many others, is slowly going the way of the dinosaur.
With every generation, work ethic and the simple desire to work appears to be fading. For this
reason I am grateful to those before me who encouraged and required more of me. George
Bernard Shaw and many others have spoken about what it takes to achieve ones goals and
success. Central to this line of thinking is the ability to be proactive.

BSN STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOME 2

Proactivity requires focus-focus on your lifes purpose-focus on what you wish to achieve
and how youre going to do it. It necessitates the need to delay gratification, which means
sacrifice. Being proactive requires the ability to set aside the pleasures of today for glory and the
true joy tomorrow may bring. This amount of joy and the rewards that follow only come through
planning, hard work and dedication to a purpose.
Learning Experiences
The first learning experience that comes to mind is in-service trainings required or
offered by an employer. These training include: keeping skills current, administrative or
company policy review, and teambuilding, to name a few. A second learning opportunity is that
of outside learning experiences; for example, continuing education credits, professional
associations that offer trainings, and offering nursing service to another charity organization or
event. Volunteering time benefits the giver as well as the receiver.
Pursuing advanced education is yet another way in which to proactively seek professional
development and reach professional goals. This may not appeal to all, but it is nonetheless highly
customizable to each individual and their aspirations. I would like to pursue a doctorate degree
and continue to serve patients and families as a Nurse Practitioner focused on holistic care.
The last learning opportunity I will address is that of nursing experience. Through
practice repetition, reflection, and modification a nurse is able to develop excellence. If nurses
use self-discovering reflection they will find that this reflection gives them deepe[r] knowledge
and insight in[to] a variety of areas that could bring forth personal as well as professional
development (Berter, 2010).
All of these endeavors are facilitated by, but not dependent on, encouragement from
family, friends, and co-workers. Regardless of the intent of each learning opportunity, each is

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useful in furthering the professionalism, knowledge and skills of each nurse. It is also important
to view it as an opportunity to better self, rather than another task of your job.
Conclusion and Future Nursing Practice
Many opportunities for learning, professional development and obtaining goals are
available. These choices come through a wide variety of sources; i.e., work-facilitated trainings,
outside agencies, formal and informal education, and work experience. There is no shortage of
opportunities if one is willing to search for them.
Although much is required of an individual to proactively seek out learning experiences
to achieve professional development and professional goals, the benefit is undeniable. As this
process takes place the nurse develops attributes and skills which allow her or him to provide
excellent nursing care. The nurse cultivates life-skills that benefit him or her on a professional as
well as personal level. Lastly, the nurse develops a love of nursing, which facilitates improved
patient outcomes; the hallmark of excellent nursing.

BSN STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOME 2

References
Berter, C. (2010). Reflection in and on nursing practices- how nurses reflect and develop
knowledge and skills during their nursing practice. International Journal of Caring
Sciences, 3(3), 85-90. Retrieved from
http://search.proquest.com/docview/1429274085?accountid=27045