Content area
Background:
There is a critical shortage of doctoral-degree nursing faculty, especially in family nursing, that necessitates innovative approaches to mentorship. Virtual mentoring offers a potential solution to bridge geographical barriers and develop the next generation of nurses.
Method:
This qualitative case study, adhering to Standards for Reporting Qualitative Research, analyzed a cross-national virtual mentoring relationship between a United States-based faculty member and a Spanish doctoral student. Data sources included videoconference transcripts and reflective reports.
Results:
Thematic analysis revealed four key themes characterizing the virtual mentoring relationship: (1) effective communication and collaboration; (2) constructive feedback and problem solving; (3) emotional support and professional development; and (4) creating a safe and reflective learning environment.
Conclusion:
Virtual mentoring is a versatile and effective strategy to build capacity for family nursing education and research, and to address critical faculty shortages. Quality mentorship is crucial for advancing family nursing scholarship.
Details
Mentors;
Units of Study;
Nurses;
Guidance;
Instructional Innovation;
Data Collection;
Nursing Education;
Influence of Technology;
College Faculty;
Doctoral Programs;
Educational Innovation;
Nursing Research;
Educational Technology;
Cultural Differences;
Nursing Students;
Case Studies;
Data Interpretation;
Data Analysis;
Evidence Based Practice;
Data Processing;
Cultural Awareness;
Educational Environment;
COVID-19;
Educational Strategies