Publication Details
Wilson, J. (2008). Bridging the theory practice gap. Australian Nursing Journal, 16(4).
Abstract
The gap between theory and practice has long been identified as a problem in nursing and midwifery. In the past this has been described as an “embarrassing failure” (Rafferty et al., 1996 p.685) and presently there is a strong consensus that the existence of this gap is not only pressing but increasing (Spouse 2001; Landers 2000).
This article reports the findings of a qualitative descriptive study conducted. The purpose of this study was to explore the theory practice gap from the perspective of the midwifery student. This was considered to be a unique angle on this well researched and debated contemporary issue in nursing.
