Cultural reproduction of knowledge and identity: Impact of a competency-based curriculum on knowledge engagement and identity construction in second year undergraduate nursing students in England – A constructivist grounded theory study

Students place importance on and seek familiarity in the clinical environment and this can constrain opportunities for deeper critical engagement and hinder the development of autonomous practitioners capable of independent, reflective and critical thinking. Year two marks a pivotal stage in professional identity development and students seek knowledge and guidance from 'significant others' - typically their peers. Informal and hidden elements of the curriculum can influence students' learning and professional identity formation. Findings may have wider implications for opening international discourse on competency-based education including potential transferability to other practice-based professions.