The gap between theory and practice in nursing education in Lebanon: A Study of the perception of nursing educators and students

The center of service in a healthcare setting is the patient. The quality of patient care relies on the performance of the healthcare providers, such as nurses. The ability of nursing students to adapt to their roles and responsibilities after graduation depends on the educational program`s ability to reflect the reality of nursing and the working environment. The purpose is to highlight the conflict that may arise when nursing students face a complex clinical situation that doesn’t abide by the theoretical principles learnt in nursing school. The problem between theoretical courses and clinical training is a source of concern to students, practitioners, and educators worldwide. Many factors are involved in integrating theory and practice for nursing students, mainly the curriculum`s elements. The curriculum is the backbone of the practice in nursing since the obtained knowledge is synchronized with the practice. This research was conducted in different universities in Lebanon. The target population was the Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree nursing student seniors attending classes during the time of research. The questionnaire was divided according to accredited standards, focused on the curriculum elements. The second part of the methodology process was a questionnaire directed to the educators/instructors available in the institution. The results show the lack of recognition and awareness among nursing educators/instructors and students.