From academic education to profession: how to integrate formal learning with those of work practice in the field of care professions

Abstract

The transition from an educational setting to practice setting is often a real shock for the new graduate nurses. During the first working experience they sure enough compare their formal knowledge with the issues of the practice. All this is very difficult for professionals. The role of the tutor/mentor is very important in order to support the transition of new graduate nurses: the tutor/mentor is a significant resource during the transition because he/she provides teaching, knowledge and guidance. An aimed vocational training of the mentor could be an effective opportunity to achieve the instruments and the strategies to support and help the new employees to integrate formal learning with those of working practice.