In the realm of marketing, a successful branding strategy is one of the most important contributors to organizational success. A solid branding strategy can help add visibility and credibility to a company’s products.
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Similarly, nurse-scholars can build a personal brand to add visibility and credibility to their work. You can begin building your brand by developing and maintaining an academic portfolio. Such an activity can help share the results of your efforts and contribute to your success. This Module’s Discussion asks you to consider and share strategies for building your portfolio.
Note : Unless otherwise noted, initial postings to Discussions are due on or before Day 3, and response postings are due on or before Day 6. You are required to participate in the Discussion on at least three different days (a different day for main post and each response). It is important to adhere to the weekly time frame to allow others ample time to respond to your posting. In addition, you are expected to respond to questions directed toward your own initial posting in a timely manner.
Resources
Be sure to review the Learning Resources before completing this activity.
Click the weekly resources link to access the resources.
WEEKLY RESOURCES
To Prepare:
Reflect on strategies that you can pursue in developing portfolios or portfolio elements that focus on academic achievements.
Review one or more samples from your own research of resources focused on portfolio development.
By Day 3 of Week 8
Post an explanation of at least two strategies for including academic activities and accomplishments into your professional development goals. Then, explain how those goals may align with the University’s emphasis on social change. Be specific and provide examples.
By Day 6 of Week 8
Respond to at least two of your colleagues’ posts by offering additional ideas regarding academic achievements to include or offering alternative ways of presenting the current achievements.
This topic is closed for comments.
DH
Donna Hopkinson
Oct 17, 2024 5:56pm | Last reply Oct 19, 2024 5:36pm
Reply from Donna Hopkinson
Hello Everyone,
Personal branding plays a key role in a nurse’s staying on track with goals and objectives. Academic activities and accomplishments are crucial for the professional development of nurse scholars. One of the key strategies is engaging in publications and research processes. Nurse scholars can conduct research and publish the results for professional growth and improving individual knowledge. A nurse scholar can focus on researching marginalized communities and then publishing the research to support health equity and social betterment. This strategy consistently increases knowledge and helps improve the experience. Nurse scholars can foster personal brands by supporting different needy communities.
The second strategy nurse scholars should focus on is working as an academic mentor. This leadership role also helps in managing committees and leading the nurses in the right direction through mentoring. Nurse scholars under this strategy develop highly strong leadership skills and understand the current trends in the healthcare field. “Students’ engagement in academic-related learning activities is one of the important determinants of students’ success. Identifying the best teaching strategies to sustain and promote nursing students’ engagement in academic and clinical settings has always been a challenge for nurse educators” (Ghasemi et al., 2020). Nurse scholars can decide on whether to work full-time or part-time as mentors for some students and guide them on different nursing programs. This will be a support system for students in the research process and bring change to society.
The university has provided students to transform their personal and professional careers as scholars to foster positive change in the community. These strategies discussed above will support the community and society in improving healthcare and making this world a better living place. The research contributions will be helpful in preventing illnesses which is also the key step of the university. It helps people as a guide and education to bring social change in society. Participating in community-based activities like sports activities for disabled persons and health screening for women will foster a positive change by nurse scholars.
References
Ghasemi, M. R., Moonaghi, H. K., & Heydari, A. (2020). Strategies for sustaining and enhancing nursing students’ engagement in academic and clinical settings: a narrative review. Korean Journal of Medical Education , 32 (2), 103–117. https://doi.org/10.3946/kjme.2020.159
Expand discussion thread from Donna Hopkinson
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Marie Christine Magadan Franco
Oct 16, 2024 10:38pm | Last reply Oct 19, 2024 6:56pm
Reply from Marie Christine Magadan Franco
As a nurse scholar, developing a personal brand is essential to increasing your reputation and visibility in the industry. Documenting and showcasing your papers and research initiatives is a good way to build an academic portfolio. You can paint a complete picture of your achievements in the nursing profession by posting summaries of your research findings and links to published articles or conference presentations. This shows off your proficiency and dedication to expanding the field’s body of knowledge. Including information from a study you conducted on patient care techniques and presented at a nursing conference, for instance, in your portfolio, can draw interest from colleagues and possible partners (East, 2015).
Another essential strategy is to reflect on your professional development through continuous education and skills enhancement. Including certifications, workshops, and courses you have completed can show your dedication to lifelong learning. For instance, if you complete a certification in advanced practice nursing, highlighting this in your portfolio can emphasize your readiness to take on more complex roles in healthcare (Casey & Egan, 2013). This aligns well with Walden University’s emphasis on social change, as it demonstrates your ability to adapt and contribute to improving healthcare practices, ultimately benefiting patient outcomes and community health.
Establishing clear goals to address healthcare inequities or enhance patient education may match your professional development objectives with Walden University’s emphasis on social change. For instance, a community outreach program can be created to educate marginalized groups about health issues. By adding this project to your portfolio, you demonstrate your abilities, expertise, and dedication to improving society. An all-encompassing approach to brand development promotes a more equitable healthcare environment, enhancing your career prospects and linking your work with larger social objectives (Hannans & Olivo, 2017).
References
Casey, D., & Egan, D. (2013). The use of professional portfolios for career enhancement. British Journal of Nursing , 15 (11), 547–552.
East, R. (2015). Developing a nurse practitioner portfolio. ACORN: The Journal of Perioperative Nursing in Australia , 28 (4), 35.
Hannans, J., & Olivo, Y. (2017). Craft a positive nursing digital identity with an ePortfolio. American Nurse Today , 12 (11), 48–49. Retrieved from https://www.americannursetoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/ant11-Digital-Identity-1017a-1.pdf Links to an external site.
Expand discussion thread from Marie Christine Magadan Franco
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Justina Chinyere Ibe
Oct 16, 2024 10:27pm | Last reply Oct 18, 2024 9:54pm
Reply from Justina Chinyere Ibe
My Professional Development Goals
My professional development goal is to be professionally and academically up to date with academic and professional developments in Nursing, and make myself “visible” in my profession. That means that I have to be up to date with evidence-based-practices and researches in nursing and have a portfolio that will showcase and highlight my professional and academic achievements. Having a portfolio will make me more visible to potential employers, academic and professional opportunities, and collaborations. In this age of technology, e-portfolios are more accessible. McMillan et al., (2014) pointed out some of the benefits of e-portfolio a way to reflect and evaluate self achievements, showcase skills, assess and review programs, and showcase one’s professional standards.
Instead of Professional Development Goals, Thompson et al, (2020) identifies the goals as “Individual Development Plans, (IDP)”. According the them, each plan is individualistic to each scholar. The purpose of IDP is to allow individuals to identify, develop, and pursue career aspirations while prioritizing the trajectory of their education and career.
Strategies for Including Academic Activities and Accomplishments
McMillan et al., (2014) pointed out the following as strategies for showcasing academic activities and accomplishments:
A clearly developed website. This will be useful for potential employers. McMillan et al., (2014).
Having an e-portfolio
Including the URL of the e-portfolio on resume, business cards or cover letters.
The following, according to Casey & Egan (2010) are the different ways one can showcase academic achievements and accomplishment:
Records of education and training in advanced skills such
as diagnostics to include some corroborative evidence
of advanced skill competency such as OSCE or witness
testimony
Reports of audits of practice include documentation reviews
Patient perspective through/patient stories
Peer review of practice
Feedback from colleagues and line managers
Notes from clinical supervision undertaken
Case studies
Reflection on practice events and incidents including commentary on development and refinement of
advanced skills over time
My Goals alignment with Walden University Social Change
Being academically and professionally up to date in my profession and making myself visible for advancement opportunities and employers will help me to better serve my community. This is in line with Walden University Goal for social change which among other goals, aim “to produce graduates who are scholarly, reflective practitioners and agents of positive social change”. Thus, my activities should reflect technological, employer and professional changes.
References
Casey DC, & Egan D. (2010). The use of professional portfolios and profiles for career enhancement. British Journal of Community Nursing, 15 (11), 547–552.
McMillan, L. R. , Parker, F. & Sport, A. (2014). Decisions, decisions! E-portfolio as an effective hiring assessment tool. Nursing Management (Springhouse), 45 (4), 52-54. doi: 10.1097/01.NUMA.0000444882.93063.a7.
Thompson, H. J., Santacroce, S. J., Pickler, R. H., Allen, J. K., Armer, J. M., Bakken, S., Bowles, K. H., Conley, Y. P., Dunbar, S. A., Ellington, L., Grey, M., Heitkemper, M. M., Herr, K. A., Lake, E., McCarthy, A. M., Melnyk, B., Miaskowski, C. A., Moore, S. M., Naylor, M. D., & Stone, P. W. (2020). Use of individual development plans for nurse scientist training. Nursing Outlook , 68 (3), 284–292. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.outlook.2020.01.001 Links to an external site.
Walden University Handbook. (n.d.) Retrieved from https://academics.waldenu.edu/handbook/vision-mission-goals#s-lg-box-30141422
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Sheena Chambers
Oct 16, 2024 7:07pm | Last reply Oct 19, 2024 8:10pm
Reply from Sheena Chambers
Professional Development Goals
It is a good to plan out goals for professionalism and how to grow because there is always room for improvement in our job. Some goals I plan to have in my education and for the future are to have effective communication, improve time management, start networking and be an effective thoughtful leader.
How one can begin to set goals are to set clear, measurable goals for oneself. The acronym S.M.A.R.T is looking at specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound goals to create an effective growth plan so that it is possible to stay motivated. One way I specifically wanted to grow is to build relationships and network. This is a wonderful way to gain exposure to new opportunities, have a support system and a way to get out and meet people. Another way to network would be to attend industry events, join professional organizations, or use LinkedIn to connect with those in my field of work (Hall, 2023).
Strategies for Including Academic Activities and Accomplishments
Strategies to include academic activities and accomplishments into my goals could be to seek out mentorship, take on new challenges, keep a growth mindset and reflect and adjust. Having a mentor is a fantastic day to find guidance, support, and feedback so one can achieve goals. Finding someone I respect and admire that mentor could promote growth and give inside guidance I may have not thought of. Taking on new challenges is a fantastic way to develop new skills. Volunteering for new projects, assignments or adding some responsibilities to challenge myself within my education (Hall, 2023).
Goals and Alignment with Walden University’s Social Change
Walden University’s social change mission includes providing a diverse community of professional careers to provide positive social change. The Walden University vision looks at an inclusive online learning community where all knowledge is valued to solve critical and societal challenges to promote greater good. The Center for Social Change focuses on three major commitments. These commitments are empowering change-makers, building community, and elevating social change outcomes. The big goal is to work towards the greater good and making inclusive goals that involve social change for the world. Some of the guiding values that align with my own from Walden are understanding, inspiring, advocating and connecting with the community for positive social change. Being inspiring and an advocate is essential to keeping yourself motivated to do the right thing and to be there for others. Being an advocate is essential for not only school or goals, but to serve people as future practitioners and doing the greater good for the community (Walden 2024).
References
Hall, Thompson-Markward. 2023. How to Promote Professional Growth Throughout the Year. Retrieved from: https://tmhdc.org/2023/01/24/how-to-promote-professional-growth-throughout-the year/?gad_source=1&gclid=EAlalQobChMl2o6EyYWRiQMVjWBHAR1o5S3PEAAYAyAAEglNb_D_BwE
Walden University. 2024. Social Change. Retrieved from: https://www.waldenu.edu/why-walden/social-change
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Eloisa Solarana Almaguer
Oct 16, 2024 6:51pm | Last reply Oct 19, 2024 9:47pm
Reply from Eloisa Solarana Almaguer
Strategies for Developing Academic Portfolios
The development of academic portfolios is an essential practice in contemporary education, especially at institutions like Walden University, which emphasizes social change (Hannans & Olivo, 2017). A portfolio not only documents academic achievements but also allows students to reflect on their learning and personal growth. To maximize the effectiveness of a portfolio, it is vital to implement clear and coherent strategies.
Collection and Selection of Materials
One of the most effective strategies for developing an academic portfolio is the careful collection and selection of materials, as this process involves gathering a variety of works that reflect both the student’s achievements and progress (Chae & Lee, 2021). The collection should include not only final projects but also drafts and ongoing work that demonstrate the evolution of critical thinking and acquired skills. For example, a student might include essays, research projects, and oral presentations that showcase their ability to research and communicate complex ideas.
The selection process is equally crucial; students must choose those works that best evidence their development and align with their professional goals. This selection should be thoughtful, considering not only the most impressive work but also those that tell a story about their learning journey (van der Gulden et al., 2022). For instance, an education student might select a project on innovative teaching methods from a previous course, highlighting how this work relates to their desire to implement changes in the classroom.
Reflection and Projection
Another vital strategy is reflecting on the work completed, as this component allows students to assess their own learning and make connections between their academic experiences and professional goals. According to Chae & Lee (2021), through reflection, students can identify areas of strength and weakness, as well as establish plans for future improvement. For example, a student might reflect on how a specific course helped them develop leadership skills in education and how they plan to apply those skills in their future career.
Projection, on the other hand, involves thinking about the future and how current achievements can influence professional goals. This may include identifying opportunities to apply learning in real-world or community contexts (Hannans & Olivo, 2017). In this sense, a student might plan to engage in community initiatives that promote inclusive education, aligning with Walden’s focus on social change.
Conclusion
When developing academic portfolios focused on academic achievements, it is essential to implement strategies for collecting and selecting materials, as well as fostering reflection and projection of learning. These practices not only enrich the portfolio but also prepare students to actively contribute to social change through their education.
References
Chae, S. J., & Lee, Y. W. (2021). Exploring the strategies for successfully building e-portfolios in medical schools. Korean journal of medical education , 33 (2), 133–137. https://doi.org/10.3946/kjme.2021.188
Hannans, J., & Olivo, A. Y. (2017). Craft a positive nursing digita identity with an ePortfolio . Myamericannurse.com. https://www.myamericannurse.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/ant11-Digital-Identity-1017a-1.pdf
van der Gulden, R., Timmerman, A., Muris, J. W. M., Thoonen, B. P. A., Heeneman, S., & Scherpbier-de Haan, N. D. (2022). How does portfolio use affect self-regulated learning in clinical workplace learning: What works, for whom, and in what contexts?. Perspectives on medical education , 11 (5), 247–257. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40037-022-00727-7
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Selina Villanueva
Oct 16, 2024 4:25pm | Last reply Oct 18, 2024 10:36pm
Reply from Selina Villanueva
Professional Development Goals
In addition to completing this program, I plan on improving my skills in critical areas of my professional practice. This includes enhancing my cultural competence and evidence-based practice (EBP) in nursing. Cultural competence and EBP in nursing are integral to providing patient-centered and culturally sensitive care supported by the most recent and relevant scientific evidence (Ličen & Prosen, 2023). Thus, I believe I will be able to use my academic activities and accomplishments to promote clinical interventions that are integral to achieving optimal population health outcomes and patient satisfaction.
Strategies for Including Academic Activities and Accomplishments
There are several strategies that I can use to include my academic activities and accomplishments in my professional portfolio. According to Casy and Egan (2013), professional portfolios are a “dynamic tool that allows and records professional growth” (p.550). Thus, I will gather all the relevant materials indicating my academic activities and goal accomplishments throughout my professional and academic experiences and include them in my portfolio. Such materials can include, but are not limited to, class presentations, research papers, certificates, and project reports. Also, I will use the strategy of reflection to demonstrate my personal, academic, and professional growth toward achieving my goals in cultural competence and EBP in nursing. According to Biedermann et al. (2022) and Mohajer et al. (2023), reflection is important in highlighting learning at a personal level and linking academic activities to one’s professional development. Thus, the two strategies highlighted above will be essential to ensuring my portfolio reflects the disparate ways my academic achievements are linked to my nursing practice and professional development goals.
Goals and Alignment with Walden University’s Social Change
As mentioned earlier, my professional development goals involve improving EBP in nursing and culturally competent and sensitive care. This approach to nursing aligns with Walden University’s commitment to positive social change because it promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion in care delivery (Walden University, n.d.). Moreover, my goals ensure that my nursing practice is guided by scientific evidence and patients’ cultural considerations, leading to increased involvement of communities, families, and patients in healthcare decision-making. The expected outcome of such practices includes optimal patient health outcomes, improved satisfaction, and positive changes to communities’ health-seeking behaviors, which reflect positive social change that is inclusive and respectful of the patient population’s diverse cultural backgrounds.
References
Biedermann, N., Ahern, T., & Harrison, H. (2022). Professional portfolio development: Personally and professionally rewarding and satisfying. Australian Nursing and Midwifery Journal, 27 (6), 41.
Casy, D., & Egan, D. (2013). The use of professional portfolios for career enhancement. British Journal of Nursing, 15 (11). 547-552
Ličen, S., & Prosen, M. (2023). The development of cultural competences in nursing students and their significance in shaping the future work environment: A pilot study. BMC Medical Education, 23 (1), 819-827. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12909-023-04800-5
Mohajer, S., Li Yoong, T., Chan, C. M., Danaee, M., Mazlum, S. R., & Bagheri, N. (2023). The effect of professional portfolio learning on nursing students’ professional self-concepts in geriatric adult internship: A – quasi-experimental study. BMC Medical Education, 23 (1), 114-126. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12909-023-04097-4
Walden University. (n.d.). Social change . https://www.waldenu.edu/why-walden/social-change
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Cenda Hemingway
Oct 16, 2024 3:44pm | Last reply Oct 20, 2024 7:50pm
Reply from Cenda Hemingway
Strategies for Academic Portfolios
Academic portfolios are essential for the professional development of nursing students or graduates. They provide a platform to showcase accomplishments, skill sets, knowledge, and interests, providing a comprehensive professional growth record. Traditionally, job qualifications have been assessed through resumes alone, but technological advancements have introduced e-portfolios, broadening career opportunities beyond paper documentation.
E-portfolios create a digital footprint that allows individuals to express creativity while outlining their professional goals. They also provide a means for students to connect with professional organizations, thereby enhancing their knowledge base (Hannans, et al.,2017). Walden aims to facilitate learning through diverse and innovative approaches that promote critical thinking and professional excellence (Walden University. (n.d.). Consequently, e-portfolios foster shared experiences and expand global networking beyond traditional word-of-mouth.
Developing an e-portfolio will significantly enhance my resume by highlighting my academic growth and career accomplishments (McMillian, et al.,2014). I will include all relevant professional organizational memberships, such as the American Nursing Association (ANA), and community service activities, such as Bridge of Life, founded by DaVita. Additionally, I plan to maintain a detailed record of clinical skills learned and tracked hours. I will document all certifications earned and awards received, ensuring that my digital footprint reflects projects completed in my nursing specialty and scholarly research contributing to social change and advancing healthcare.
Hannans, J. & Olivo, Y. (2017). Craft a positive nursing digital identity with an ePortfolio Links to an external site. Links to an external site. Links to an external site. . American Nurse Today , 12(11), 48–49. Retrieved October 16, 2024, from https://www.americannursetoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/ant11-Digital-Identity-1017a-1.pdf Links to an external site.
McMillan, L. R., Parker, F., & Sport, A. (2014). Decisions, decisions! E-portfolio as an effective hiring assessment tool Links to an external site. Links to an external site. Links to an external site. . Nursing Management , 45(4), 52-54
Walden University. (n.d.). Walden University catalog Links to an external site. Links to an external site. Links to an external site. . Retrieved October 16, 2024 from https://catalog.waldenu.edu
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Deco Tanjong
Oct 16, 2024 3:07pm | Last reply Oct 19, 2024 2:45pm
Reply from Deco Tanjong
My professional development goal
My professional development goal is to obtain my master’s degree in mental health before the end of the 2026 academic year, which will permit me to start applying skills that I learn from school, both theoretical and practical experience. After obtaining my LPN, RN, and now RN to MSN, I strongly believe I can do more than that.
Also, I am hoping that after my advanced practical nursing license, I will continue to obtain my Doctorate in nursing, which will give me the opportunity to practice in a vast community.
Strategies for including academic activities and accomplishments
To help maintain and keep up with evidence-based practice, I will maintain my membership with nursing organizations like the American Nurse Association where I will receive updates and stay current with my practice. I will make sure I follow up and complete my post-certification to continue my nursing education, by Undertaking at least 35 hours of learning activities relevant to my area of practice Casey, D. & Egan, D. (2013).
Also, I will create a demographic portfolio with all my certificates acquired, my resume, and my years of practice in my specific area of practice. I will also maintain a personal and professional portfolio or learning activity. Casey, D . (2013).
Goals alignment with Walden University
Walden University, for the past 5oyears, has been empowering patinate people to make a difference in their lives and in their communities, which aligns with one of my goals of obtaining my certification and licensure so I can be able to help communities struggling with Mental health disorder and help give them hope. Casey, D. (2013)
Reference:
Casey, D. & Egan, D. (2013). The use of professional portfolios for career enhancementLinks to an external site. Links to an external site. . British Journal of Nursing , 15(11), 547–552.
Burns, M. K. (2018). Creating a nursing portfolioLinks to an external site. Links to an external site. . Ohio Nurses Review , 93(3), 16-17.
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Qiana Felder
Oct 16, 2024 1:08pm | Last reply Oct 19, 2024 10:52pm
Reply from Qiana Felder
Professional Development Goals
One of my main professional development goals is to be a lifelong learner. Doing so will ensure I am current on new evidence-based practices that could be implemented into my patient care plans. Another goal is to be involved in a professional nursing organization like the American Nursing Association (ANA). The ANA provides many opportunities for nurses to advance their careers, such as networking events, certifications, and conferences. I would also like to work with this association to advocate for policy change. This role of policy advocacy not only promotes policies that enhance healthcare, nursing practice, and workplace conditions but also empowers us as nurses to influence the future of our profession.
Strategies for Including Academic Activities and Accomplishments
Creating a nurse portfolio that includes academic activities and accomplishments can be vital to making you more marketable for career advancement by showcasing your worth to prospective employers. Portfolios can also help identify areas where improvement is necessary, serving as a tool for engaging in self-assessment and planning for personal development (Casey & Egan, 2013).
Furthermore, I will actively engage in professional nursing organizations’ conferences to network with fellow nursing professionals. This networking opportunity can be invaluable for your career growth, providing a platform to exchange knowledge, learn from others’ experiences, and build professional relationships. I will also utilize an e-portfolio, which will be readily available for viewing by scanning a QR code. Creating an ePortfolio can aid in preparing for academic applications and professional interviews (Hannana & Olivo, 2017).
Goals and Alignment with Walden University’s Social Change
Walden University encourages a dedication to positive change by pursuing, acquiring, and applying knowledge to benefit communities (Walden University, 2024). This aligns with my goal of becoming a PMHNP to help underserved communities. I will apply knowledge gained from my experiences and evidence-based practices to help youth struggling with mental health disorders and promote a positive change in hopes of reducing the mental health stigma.
References
Casey DC, & Egan D. (2010). The use of professional portfolios and profiles for career enhancement. British Journal of Community Nursing, 15(11), 547-552
Hannans, J. & Olivo, Y. (2017). Craft a positive nursing digital identity with an ePortfolioLinks to an external site. American Nurse Today, 12(11), 48–49. Retrieved November 14, 2018, from https://www.americannursetoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/ant11-Digital-Identity-1017a-1.pdf Links to an external site.
Walden University. (2024). Social Change. Walden University. https://www.waldenu.edu/why-walden/social-change Links to an external site.
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John Kirby Tompkins
Oct 16, 2024 9:37am | Last reply Oct 19, 2024 1:30pm
Reply from John Kirby Tompkins
Module 5 Initial Discussion Post
Professional Development Goals
On my journey in nursing from LPN to MSN level, my professional goals have included acquiring, maintaining, and improving my clinical skills, always with the objective of improving patient outcomes. Following the ANCC continuing education protocols has been one strategy for maintaining my professional goals. Yet, upon reflection, and at this time in my career, it is important to adapt in more explicit fashion, Walden’s vision of positive social change. In particular, I identify with the notion of a deliberate process of creation and application to achieve improvement in social conditions. (Walden, n.d.)
Strategies for Including Academic Activities and Accomplishments
First, I see the need to create an e-Portfolio that will contain elements of my traditional resume along with my ANCC continuing education record. In addition, I could add a blog from a reseach and training institute that featured and reflected my specific training experience in effectively meeting pediatric emotional, behavioral, and educational needs. Casey (2013) states “rather than just a retrospective account of continuing professional development activities, a portfolio can be used as a vehicle for engaging in self-assessment and personal and professional development planning”.
And so, secondly, I need to challenge myself to be involved in research. Areas of interest include those with adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), those who are incarcerated, and immigrants being assimilated into an area with a long history of being underserved.
Goals and Alignment with Walden University’s Social Change
The Walden Vision promotes a deliberate thoughtful process of integrating who I am with where I want to go. In my professional life I have valued finding and being guided by the meaningfulness of whatever I do. This e-portfolio device can justify itself by promoting my professional sense of self, tracking evidence of work-related complexity and outcomes, and providing career structure and direction. (Burns, 2018).
References
Burns, M. K. (2018). Creating a nursing portfolioLinks to an external site. Links to an external site. . Ohio Nurses Review , 93(3), 16-17.
Casey, D. & Egan, D. (2013). The use of professional portfolios for career enhancementLinks to an external site. Links to an external site. . British Journal of Nursing , 15(11), 547–552.
Walden University. (n.d.). Walden University catalogLinks to an external site. Links to an external site. . Retrieved October 14, 2024) from https://catalog.waldenu.edu Links to an external site.
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Joan Chikaodi Clement
Oct 16, 2024 6am | Last reply Oct 19, 2024 11:02am
Reply from Joan Chikaodi Clement
Two strategies for including academic activities and accomplishments into your professional development goals and alignment with University’s emphasis on social change.
One of the strategies that I will use is documenting academic achievement as well as pursuing certification. Impliedly, I will document my academic achievement such as research projects I have included and published, certifications as well as degrees. Keeping records of my academic achievements will depict my achievements as well as my growth as a mental health specialist. One area that I will focus on is documenting the research projects that I have conducted and published. The Walden social change focuses on developing principled, knowledgeable, and ethical scholar-practitioners, who are and will become civic and professional role models by advancing the betterment of society (Walden University, n.d.). My goal of documenting academic achievement in areas such as research aligns with this social change because it will depict my commitment to the contribution of knowledge and the need to make change in the mental health field through the generation of evidence and knowledge.
Another strategy is documenting evidence-based projects in the portfolio. EBP has been the cornerstone of improving health outcomes hence the need to incorporate and document to demonstrate its effectiveness (Connor et al., 2023). Documenting these achievements will show my ability to apply evidence in patient care which will help advance the nursing profession. Evidence-based practice aligns with Walden’s social change which denotes that a positive social change results in the improvement of human and social conditions. Lastly, I will pursue a leadership position and document this in my portfolio. The rationale for this is that with a leadership person, I can influence healthcare practices and policies positively. For instance, joining a lead to personal growth, enhanced professional perspective, and knowledge development, and by pursuing leadership in such an organization I would influence policy change (Cline et al., 2019). This aligns with Walden’s social change of advancing the betterment of society.
References
Cline, D., Curtin, K., & Johnston, P. A. (2019). Professional Organization Membership: The Benefits of Increasing Nursing Participation. Clinical Journal of Oncology Nursing , 23 (5), 543–546. https://doi.org/10.1188/19.CJON.543-546
Connor, L., Dean, J., McNett, M., Tydings, D. M., Shrout, A., Gorsuch, P. F., Hole, A., Moore, L., Brown, R., Melnyk, B. M., & Gallagher-Ford, L. (2023). Evidence-based practice improves patient outcomes and healthcare system return on investment: Findings from a scoping review. Worldviews on Evidence-Based Nursing , 20 (1), 6–15. https://doi.org/10.1111/wvn.12621
Walden University. (n.d.). Walden University catalog. https://academics.waldenu.edu/handbook/vision-mission-goals#s-lg-box-30141422
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Nicole Greco Carl
Oct 16, 2024 1:11am | Last reply Oct 19, 2024 11:05am
Reply from Nicole Greco Carl
Professional Development Goals
One of my professional development goals is to obtain an advanced degree by the year 2027.
Another professional development goal of mine is to become a 104 NP by my third year of obtaining my Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), (Ecareers, 2023).
Strategies for Including Academic Activities and Accomplishments
For my first goal, I am moving towards faster. I am already in the PHMNP program, however, to keep up with this goal, I need to stay focused and balance work, family, friends, and now school. To help me on this path, I deleted all social media besides Instagram. On other platforms, like TikTok, I was wasting time which I knew should be used towards my studies. “Excessive use of TikTok can also lead to a decrease in productivity and an overall decrease in quality of life” (Ainsworth, 2024).
To obtain my second goal, I first need to succeed in my first goal. Already, during this first block of classes, I am learning the requirements regarding a 104 NP and what I am to do to obtain it once I become a 103 NP. Once I am a 103 NP, the wisest strategy for me will be to find a respected, trustworthy, and educated medical doctor that I can work with and learn from for the three years needed before becoming a 104 NP.
Goals and Alignment with Walden University’s Social Change
Walden’s goals center around three main goals; “empowering change-makers, building community, and elevating social change outcomes”(Walden, 2024). By achieving my goals, I will have the tools, resources, and knowledge to help the community around me that I see struggling. I see many younger patients in the hospital now, and because of their culture and or background, their parents struggle with the subject of mental health and their child needing treatment for it. I plan to work with this part of the community and help some of the older generation that has a hard time understanding that health is not just physical.
References:
Ainsworth, A. (2024, June 6). Tiktok addiction: How to spend less time on TikTok . Next Level Recovery. https://www.nextlevelrecoveryassociates.com/blog-posts/tiktok-addiction#:~:text=The%20dopamine%2Dfueled%20reward%20system,to%20take%20action%20right%20away.
eCareers, H. (2023, May 18). 6 strategies for Achieving Nursing Professional Development Goals . healthecareers.com. https://www.healthecareers.com/career-resources/nurse-credentialing-and-education/strategies-for-achieving-nursing-professional-development-goals
Walden, university. (2024). Social Change . Walden University. https://www.waldenu.edu/why-walden/social-change
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Mishay Brooks
Oct 15, 2024 10pm | Last reply Oct 19, 2024 12:54pm
Reply from Mishay Brooks
Professional Development Goals
Setting clear professional development goals is important for me as a nurse-scholar to grow both academically and professionally. These goals not only help me focus on improving my skills but also guide me in contributing to the nursing field in meaningful ways. Two of my primary goals include gaining expertise in my nursing specialty and contributing to academic literature through research and publications (Vázquez-Calatayud et al., 2021). These goals support my long-term objective of staying at the forefront of evidence-based practice while ensuring that I continue to provide innovative and patient-centered care.
Strategies for Including Academic Activities and Accomplishments
To build an academic portfolio that reflects my accomplishments, I need to strategically include academic activities that demonstrate my growth and contributions. One way I can strengthen my portfolio is by actively engaging in research and scholarly publications. Publishing articles in peer-reviewed journals or presenting at professional conferences not only adds credibility to my work but also showcases my expertise. For example, I can focus on topics such as leadership in nursing or improving patient outcomes through innovative care models (Burns, 2018). These activities will allow me to contribute to the advancement of evidence-based practice, reinforcing my commitment to enhancing the nursing profession.
Another strategy I will use is pursuing professional certifications and participating in continuing education courses. By obtaining certifications in specialized areas such as psychiatric nursing or emergency care, I can demonstrate my commitment to professional excellence (Burns, 2018). In addition, attending workshops, seminars, or enrolling in advanced courses will help me stay updated with the latest advancements in my field. Including these achievements in my portfolio will reflect my dedication to lifelong learning and maintaining the highest standards of care for my patients.
Goals and Alignment with Walden University’s Social Change
One of the most important aspects of my professional development is aligning my goals with Walden University’s emphasis on positive social change. Walden defines positive social change as the process of creating strategies and actions that improve human and social conditions. As a nurse-scholar, I recognize that my work must have a meaningful impact not only on individual patients but also on the broader healthcare system and society (Walden University, n.d.). For example, my research could focus on healthcare disparities or improving access to mental health services for underserved populations. By publishing work that addresses these systemic issues, I can actively contribute to the promotion of social change, a core value of Walden University.
Additionally, I plan to participate in community outreach programs and volunteer for health promotion initiatives, which will allow me to make a direct impact on the health outcomes of my community. Including these activities in my portfolio will highlight how I am working to advance both healthcare quality and social equity (Walden University n.d.). By aligning my academic and professional development goals with Walden’s mission of fostering positive social change, I am not only developing my skills but also becoming an agent of change in my community. My portfolio will reflect my dedication to improving healthcare systems and creating a lasting, positive impact on society.
Conclusion
Incorporating academic activities and accomplishments into my professional development goals will help me build a strong personal brand as a nurse-scholar. By focusing on publishing research, gaining certifications, and contributing to positive social change, I will demonstrate my commitment to advancing nursing practice and improving healthcare systems. Aligning these goals with Walden University’s emphasis on social change further supports my mission to make a meaningful and lasting impact, both locally and globally.
References
Burns, M. K. (2018). Creating a nursing portfolioLinks to an external site. Links to an external site. . Ohio Nurses Review , 93(3), 16-17.
Vázquez-Calatayud, M., Errasti-Ibarrondo, B., & Choperena, A. (2021). Nurses’ continuing professional development: A systematic literature review. Nurse Education in Practice , 50, 102963. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1471595320310490 Links to an external site.
Walden University. (n.d.). Walden University catalogLinks to an external site. Links to an external site. . Retrieved October 4, 2019, from https://catalog.waldenu.edu
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Rebecca Blair Manges
Oct 15, 2024 7:46pm | Last reply Oct 19, 2024 9:11pm
Reply from Rebecca Blair Manges
Professional Development Goals
As a current family nurse practitioner, I have worked in a couple of areas of practice, including primary care and oncology. During COVID, I ended up in an acute care role and found my area of practice where I can best serve my patients. When we look at goal setting, we must identify both long- and short-term goals. For example, I have attended conferences and training to strengthen my practice. Achieving a post-master’s certification as an Adult Gerontology Acute Nurse Practitioner is vital to my long-term goals. I want to use evidence-based practice and continue with activities that promote professional growth.
Strategies for Including Academic Activities and Accomplishments
I started a professional portfolio when I started my master’s program. This portfolio includes all my clinical training as an FNP student, procedure logs, chart audits, and reviews. This information has helped me secure employment and is essential for clinic, hospital, and insurance credentialing. It has served as an important part of my career growth. It is also what led me back to school for additional education. Burns (2018) suggests three reasons for creating a nursing portfolio: self-promotion, evidence of outcomes, and structure and direction. A portfolio should show self-awareness, recognize the knowledge inherent in everyday nursing practice, and identify areas that need further development (Casey et al., 2010).
Goals and Alignment with Walden University’s Social Change
Completing further education to improve my practice to improve patient outcomes aligns with Walden University’s vision of social change. Walden University defines its goal as “to provide a diverse community of career professionals with the opportunity to transform themselves as scholar-practitioners so that they can effect positive social change” (Walden University, ND). As a hospital provider, I care for acute issues that sometimes arise due to a lack of accessible primary care. I must help empower patients and aid with outpatient resources.
References
Burns, M. K. (2018). Creating a nursing portfolio. Ohio Nurses Review , 93 (3), 16–17.
Casey DC, & Egan D. (2010). The use of professional portfolios and profiles for career enhancement. British Journal of Community Nursing, 15(11 ), 547-552.
Walden University. (N.D.). Social change . https://www.waldenu.edu/why-walden/social-changeLinks to an external site. Links to an external site.
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Debra Stone
Oct 15, 2024 5:31pm | Last reply Oct 18, 2024 2:01pm
Reply from Debra Stone
Professional Development Goals
A nursing portfolio showcases the nurse’s education, skills, accomplishments, and professional experiences (Burns, 2018). By creating a nursing portfolio, you can identify areas for improvement in your skills or knowledge to improve competency. A professional portfolio allows the practitioner to showcase self-awareness, recognize the knowledge inherent in everyday nursing practice, and identify areas that need further development (Casey & Egan, 2010). Maintaining an updated portfolio is crucial to demonstrate your capabilities and expertise. Nurse practitioners often work autonomously and have less oversight, and with the broad scope of their practice, there can be some concerns regarding their competence and qualifications (Casey & Egan, 2010). As a Nurse Practitioner student, setting professional development goals is essential to guiding my learning experiences and preparing me as a future practitioner.
Strategies for Including Academic Activities and Accomplishments
Integrating academic activities and accomplishments into my professional development goals is essential for continuous growth and career advancement. Two effective strategies for including academic activities and accomplishments are pursuing specialized certifications relevant to my nursing field and joining professional organizations. Engaging in professional organizations and keeping specialty certifications relevant to their patient population can enhance clinical skills and affirm expert competence in a specific clinical area (Constable et al., 2021).
Joining professional nursing organizations and attending conferences can help you connect with peers to stay current on best practices and build valuable professional relationships. Organizations and conferences will provide opportunities to connect with industry leaders, peers, and mentors in the NP community who can support your career development. Obtaining specialized certifications that align with your nursing field gains expertise and recognition, such as becoming a Nurse Practitioner or obtaining specialized certifications (e.g., pediatrics, public health, oncology). Attaining specialized certifications and joining professional organizations highlight your commitment to continuous learning and involvement in the professional community. By aligning your academic activities with your career objectives, you can advance your nursing career and demonstrate a commitment to personal and professional growth.
Goals and Alignment with Walden University’s Social Change
My professional development goals align with Walden University’s emphasis on social change. Specialized certifications or practicing in public and community health areas enable nurses to improve access to healthcare and address social determinants of health, reflecting the university’s commitment to fostering social change through improved health outcomes for underserved populations (Walden, n.d.). As a future nurse practitioner working in primary or emergency care, I can utilize the skills and knowledge I obtained from Walden University to advocate for and implement positive social change that will benefit communities, particularly those in underserved communities.
References
Burns, M. K. (2018). Creating a nursing portfolio. Ohio Nurses Review, 93(3), 16-17.
Casey, D. C., & Egan, D. (2010). The use of professional portfolios and profiles for career enhancement. British Journal of Community Nursing , 15 (11), 547–552. https://doi.org/10.12968/bjcn.2010.15.11.79625 Links to an external site.
Constable, M., Mulkey, M., & Aucoin, J. (2021). Hospital value-based purchasing: How acute care advanced practice nurses demonstrate value. Journal of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners , 34 (1), 12–17. https://doi.org/10.1097/jxx.0000000000000606 Links to an external site.
Walden University. (n.d.). Vision, Mission, and Goals. https://catalog.waldenu.edu/content.php?catoid=178&navoid=63595
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Qurita Powell
Oct 15, 2024 5:03pm | Last reply Oct 15, 2024 7:47pm
Reply from Qurita Powell
Initial Post
Strategies for Academic Portfolios
As a student working towards obtaining an MSN degree with a PMHNP specialization, I understand the importance of incorporating academic accomplishments into professional growth plans. This integration is essential in presenting growth, professionalism, and conformity to the objectives of the nursing profession. This post will explain two essential strategies for incorporating academic activities and accomplishments into my professional development goals. These strategies include creating an electronic or ePortfolio and engaging in professional conferences. I will also describe how these strategies connect with Walden University’s focus on creating positive change in the world and explain its application in psychiatric mental health nursing practice with examples.
The first strategy identified is to develop an extensive electronic portfolio that covers the subject matter. In a paper by Hannans and Olivo (2017), the authors suggested that an ePortfolio can be used to present academic and clinical portfolios. The course projects, the research papers, and the clinical case reports will form the basis of the ePortfolio, with all documents highlighting the aspects of psychiatric mental health. This strategy aligns with the Walden University mission by enabling me to showcase projects that shed light on mental health inequalities or suggest approaches to reach communities that are not adequately reached (Walden University, n.d.).
The second strategy is participating in professional conferences and presenting academic work. Burns (2018) placed major significance on presenting educational achievements in a nursing portfolio. As a result, I can share my academic progress in psychiatric mental health nursing through paper research at a conference and case presentations. This is consistent with the University’s social change agenda of creating avenues through which the knowledge could help enhance mental health care practices and results.
These strategies can help me achieve my professional growth goals since they document my academic work and the advancement of the discipline. They also correspond with the Walden social change focus because they address the social needs for enhancing mental health services. For instance, submitting a case of culturally competent care in a diverse community mental health facility is possible, arguing that my achievements in the class and social change impact positively (Casey & Egan, 2013).
References
Burns, M. K. (2018). Creating a nursing portfolio. Ohio Nurses Review, 93(3), 16–17.
Casey, D., & Egan, D. (2013). The use of professional portfolios for career enhancement. British Journal of Nursing, 15(11), 547–552.
Hannans, J., & Olivo, Y. (2017). Craft a positive nursing digital identity with an ePortfolio. American Nurse Today, 12(11), 48–49. https://www.americannursetoday.com/wp- Links to an external site. content/uploads/2017/11/ant11-Digital-Identity-1017a-1.pdf
Walden University. (n.d.). Walden University catalog. https://catalog.waldenu.edu Links to an external site.
Expand discussion thread from Qurita Powell
Lenore Louise Benton-Bey (She/Her)
Oct 15, 2024 3:49pm
Reply from Lenore Louise Benton-Bey
Discussion Five
Professional Development Goals
The professional development goals that I am focusing towards are enhancing my knowledge and using that to build a strong foundation by furthering my career and family nurse practice as a family nurse practitioner (FNP). I can do this by completing my master’s and obtaining a certification that prepares me with an advanced registration nurse practice. In order to ensure patients to receive quality care and safe delivery of services, nurse hires must be adept at clinical reasoning and critical thinking, with the ability to efficiently navigate multidimensional patient care situations in coordination with members of an interprofessional team (McMillan et al, 2014). Once obtained, I’ll be continuing my education by following up with journals that focus on evidence-based practices that are pertinent to family practice and all that it offers. And putting it to use with my career practices to give the most valuable and trusted care, advice and guidance for managing acute and chronic conditions. It is important to me as a nurse to use the health promotion practices and counseling for the patients and their families. There for if they are confident with what I am able to educate towards them, they will do their part to educate others, most importantly their families.
Strategies for Including Academic Activities and Accomplishments
As an adult learner I find that I have great motivation towards advancing my career which assists with guiding me towards success. For Adult Learners, Readiness to learn: Their readiness to learn within their social roles is apparent, Motivation to learn: As a person matures the motivation to learn is internal (Knowles, 1984 p.12). These criteria are obviously desirable characteristics for community nurses who are taking on increasingly autonomous and complex roles in response to the demands of political and societal changes (Casey and Egan, 2013). I will attend at least 2 to 4 conferences or networking events a year either in persons or online to connect with professionals and expand best practice options to utilize for the community and my practice. Pursuing advanced certifications and obtain additional certifications in specialized areas and in family nurse practice will allow others experience my expertise. As well show the commitment to my professional development and growth. I also look forward to participating in quality improvement initiative by taking an active role with projects within the nursing practice setting to enhance patient outcomes and promote evidence-based practice for the FNP.
Goals and Alignment with Walden University’s Social Change
With that being said as I am able to work on quality projects, this will be a great opportunity for me to build onto other projects like participating on committees within my local organization or professional associations related to nursing that can contribute to decision-making and policy development. Walden University believes that education and social change are fundamental to the provision and maintenance of democratic ideals and principles, especially that of the common good (Walden University, 2024). Using that social change theory in mind I can see myself hosting health screenings and organizing health fairs or screenings for conditions such as blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes, and cancer to help identify health issues early. Most importantly do what we nurses do best, by providing education on risk factors and encouraging the better outcomes and providing a positive impact on the health of the community. Supporting vulnerable population is a mission that aligns with Walden University’s social change. Working with vulnerable populations such as the elderly, children, low-income individuals, or individuals with disabilities. Working with these population I am able to provide health education, support, and resources to improve their overall well-being as an FNP.
Reference
Casey, D. & Egan, D. (2013). The use of professional portfolios for career enhancement Links to an external site. . British Journal of Nursing , 15(11), 547–552.
McMillan, L. R., Parker, F., & Sport, A. (2014). Decisions, decisions! E-portfolio as an effective hiring assessment tool Links to an external site. . Nursing Management , 45(4), 52-54.
Walden University. (n.d.). Walden University catalog Links to an external site. . Visions,Mission, and Goals . Retrieved October 14, 2024 from https://catalog.waldenu.edu
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Leaticia Onyeise
Oct 15, 2024 2:53pm | Last reply Oct 19, 2024 10:24pm
Reply from Leaticia Onyeise
Professional Development Goals
Goals are milestones developed to guide achieve something over time. They are used to measure and determine success. The goals can be short-term or long-term and easy or challenging to reach. The goals can also impact one’s life, family, education, career, or profession, depending on how they are developed, set, or achieved. According to the Walden Academic Skill Center (n.d.), goals must be specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and time-based (SMART). For example, as a nurse or healthcare provider, communication with patients and others must be concise, clear, complete, and compassionate to achieve better healthcare outcomes in service and practice. Casey et al. (2013) defined professional development as a series of learning and training experiences and actions one must take to improve his or her skills and knowledge to advance in a career or profession. Therefore, developing smart goals will allow a nurse to set both short-term and long-term goals that can result in reaching professional milestones in career achievements. Also, establishing professional development goals and the processes it took to achieve success and create academic professional portfolios demonstrate one’s professional competency and capabilities to potential employers. For example, my smart goals will include being efficient in my practice or service, meeting and maintaining my certification requirements, continuing my academic and professional development needs, and being efficient with my time management. All these will include undergoing academic and professional training, being licensed and maintaining professional practice standard requirements, having mentors and a network of people to collaborate with and trust, and improving my communication skills to serve patients and families effectively.
Strategies for Including Academic Activities and Accomplishments
As a registered nurse for over 13 years, I desire advanced training to acquire more skills, knowledge, and specialty as a healthcare provider. Presently, I work as a psychiatric nurse, caring for patients with various types of mental health disorders. This is my eighth year caring for this category of patients who are very challenging and difficult to care for. Therefore, one of my professional improvement strategies will include earning an advanced nursing degree or a specialized Psychiatric Mental Healthcare Nurse Practitioner certification. This is why I enrolled with Walden University School of Nursing to acquire a specialty program degree or certificate to gain additional skills and knowledge to continue and further serve this category of patients now and in my future practices. There is a need for more mental health professionals to help serve and meet the healthcare needs of this class of patients in rural, poor, and minority communities throughout the nation. According to McMillan et al. (2014), other strategies will include improving my professional and scholarly research skills to better understand mental health issues and challenges, resolving critical disparities in our mental healthcare system, and refining my interpersonal skills, including communication, collaboration, and teamwork. Any of these strategies will be essential in achieving academic and professional success as a Walden University student and a future psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner.
Goals and Alignment with Walden University’s Social Change
I aim to complete my advanced degree program in mental health and serve in the community. To achieve this, my short-term goals will include completing my assignments on time, getting good grades, and managing my time efficiently. My long-term goals will also include completing my advanced degree certification in the psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner program and advancing my career. Therefore, my goals and vision align with those of Walden University. The school’s goal and vision are to produce graduates who can use their knowledge to positively impact their profession, community, and society (Walden, 2022a) and with a learning community where graduates can apply their knowledge to solve critical societal challenges. Furthermore, Walden (2022b) states that the university’s mission is to provide quality, student-centered degree programs that help career professionals become scholar-practitioners who can positively impact society. As a potential mental healthcare nurse practitioner, my vision is to establish and provide evidence-based, patient-centered, and holistic services that will positively impact the community and society at large. This also aligns with the school’s goals and mission.
Reference
Casey, D. and Egan, D. (2013). The use of professional portfolios for career enhancement. Links to an external site. British Journal of Nursing , 15(11), 547–552.
Walden University. (2022b). Vision, mission, and goals. Retrieved July 12, 2022, from https://catalog.waldenu.edu/content.php?catoid=193&navoid=74971 Links to an external site.
McMillan, L. R., Parker, F., & Sport, A. (2014). Decisions, decisions! E-portfolio as an effective hiring assessment toolLinks to an external site. Links to an external site. . Nursing Management , 45(4), 52-54.
Walden University Academic Skills Center (n.d.). Smart goals setting: School-life success strategies, from Walden University Website : SMART Goals – Academic Skills – Academic Guides at Walden University Links to an external site.
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Veronica Monono
Oct 15, 2024 11:56am | Last reply Oct 20, 2024 6:58am
Reply from Veronica Monono
Professional Development Goals
Academic activities and accomplishments in my professional development goals are essential for advancing my career and contributing meaningfully to my field of study. Strategies that can help my professional goals may include pursuing advanced degrees and certification. Pursuing advanced degrees and certifications could involve enrolling in graduate programs and obtaining certification in the relevant field. I can deepen my academic skills and knowledge to achieve enormous professional growth in two or more fields of study (Smith, 2020). For example, after completing the MSN program in PMHNP, I can obtain certification that can qualify me to work as a public health nurse practitioner thereby creating an impact in our communities. By pursuing an advanced degree, I can align my professional development goal with the university’s emphasis on social change, for example, if my university has a strong focus on sustainability, as a student in the PMHNP program I can address the existence and reality of mental health illnesses in our communities thereby educating communities on how to deal and identify people suffering from mental health illnesses.
Strategies for Including Academic Activities and Accomplishments
Engaging in the professional nursing portfolio is a strategy for including academic activities in my professional goal. Burn, (2018) describes a professional portfolio as evidence of a nurse’s skills, educational achievements, and professional experience. Creating a professional nursing portfolio is an excellent tool to showcase a nurse’s expertise in their field of study and their academic and professional achievement and to stand out in their academic department and the job market as employers go through their resume or portfolio.
Additionally, engaging in research projects is another strategy for including academic activities in my professional goal, that is writing academic papers, and presenting at conferences at Walden University or other conferences relating to my field of study, which demonstrate expertise in my field of study. According to ( Green & Brown 2019) conducting research projects on health disparities in underserved communities, that is like communities suffering from mental health illnesses without access to adequate care faculties to accommodate their needs, can be incorporated into my professional development goal by setting goals to publish my research findings in a peer-reviewed journal and present my work at national or international nursing conferences. This can be aligned with the University’s emphasis on social change by contributing to evidence-based practices that address social inequities. For instance, researching ways to improve healthcare access for vulnerable populations directly supports social change initiatives focused on health equity.
Goals and Alignment with Walden University’s Social Change
Walden University strives to create positive social change by providing graduates with the right tools to become knowledgeable and ethical scholar-practitioners for the good of society (Walden University, n.d.). My goals align well with Walden’s vision of social change as I am reaching a higher degree of education to raise healthcare standards for all individuals in our communities. As a Psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner in a health care setting, I will be working towards moving into a leadership position to utilize the new skills and knowledge obtained at Walden University to impact my patients and peers in a positive light.
References
Burns, M. K. (2018). Creating a nursing portfolioLinks to an external site. Links to an external site. . Ohio Nurses Review , 93(3), 16-17.
Green, P., & Brown, J. (2019). Publishing Your Research 101: Practical Guidelines for Authors and Reviewers. Radiographics, 39(7), 2130-2132.
Smith, J. (2020). The Importance of Professional Development and Continuing Education in Nursing. Journal of Continuing Education in Nursing, 51(6), 247-248.
Walden University. (n.d.). Vision, Mission, and Goals. Retrieved November 10, 2020,
from https://catalog.waldenu.edu/content.php?catoid=178&navoid=63595 Links to an external site.
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Lucia Almeida
Oct 15, 2024 6:16am | Last reply Oct 19, 2024 11:10am
Reply from Lucia Almeida
According to the nursing career model, one of the activities to pursue is academic activities that foster the development and complementing of clinical skills, including research and attending similar conferences. Research increases the existing stock of human and formal knowledge, thus improving students’ reasoning abilities for best practice of evidence-based nursing. For example, the analysis of the first healthcare studies on telemedicine effectiveness can yield valuable information about how to enhance patient access to care. It also can result in the authoring of joint publications, which is very beneficial to professional growth and those who want to show that they are dedicated to their profession towards continuous learning.
Another recommendation is education, explicitly continuing education and certification, which strengthens professional positions and fits well with the healthcare field. For example, when one acquires a certification in geriatric nursing, one will be proving expertise in an area rapidly expanding because of the geriatric population. Through the acquisition of such knowledge I am in a position to offer quality appropriate care to the elderly thus making me a asset to any health care facility will focus on care for older people. Through a package of these academic achievements, I will establish the career advancement foundation and help implement the necessary changes to address the needs of vulnerable groups in my field of practice (Burns, 2018).
These goals align with the university’s focus on social justice as the process and impacts of change proposed for patients rely on knowledge application to better their lives and shift them from the current state for the better (Walden University, n.d.). Due to my emphasis on research and specialized training in my endeavors, I hope to advance healthcare practices for equitable blindness, especially for the missed population. For instance, the patient throughput can be studied on benchmark telemedicine to understand rural patronage’s challenges and, hence, launch the outreach program. Likewise, if I acquire knowledge on the health of the elderly, then it would make it easier to push for reforms that would enhance the quality of care given to elderly patients, which would be very helpful in terms of healthcare rights.
References
Burns, M. K. (2018). Creating a nursing portfolio. Ohio Nurses Review , 93 (3), 16–17.
Park, M., Jeong, M., Lee, M., & Cullen, L. (2020). Web-based experiential learning strategies to enhance the evidence-based-practice competence of undergraduate nursing students. Nurse Education Today , 91 , 104466. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.nedt.2020.104466 Links to an external site.
Walden University. (n.d.). Social change . https://www.waldenu.edu/why-walden/social-change
Professional Development Goals
During my journey of becoming a family nurse practitioner, creating professional development goals is crucial to gauge my progress. To provide my patients with the best care, utilizing the latest evidence-based practice (EBP) research and clinical guidelines is essential. For me, this means utilizing credible research databases to find pertinent information and joining nurse practitioner associations that release new clinical guidelines and studies. I also want to enhance my clinical assessment skills and knowledge of medications, chronic diseases, and common illnesses and create a network of professionals from whom I can receive advice. I want to be a professional, optimistic provider that my patients trust to give them holistic care that improves their quality of life.
Strategies for Including Academic Activities and Accomplishments
Utilizing a portfolio to showcase academic activities and accomplishments will help nursing professionals promote themselves, provide evidence of competencies to potential employers, and see if any of their goals need more attention (Burns, 2018). In recent years, e-portfolios have become the most common way portfolios are created and shared (Nastaran Najaffard et al., 2024). Clinical competence is essential in advancing education and becoming an independent provider. This is why monitoring academic activities, accomplishments, and clinical competencies through a portfolio is important to understand which competencies may need more attention. E-portfolios are easy to access, update, and refer to when needing to realign with goals that need to be met (Nastaran Najaffard et al., 2024). I plan to utilize an e-portfolio to monitor my progress and competencies while advancing my education to becoming a family nurse practitioner.
Goals and Alignment with Walden UnUniversity’social Change
Utilizing my education to improve my community and patient outcomes aligns perfectly with Walden UnUniversity’sision on social change. In their social change vision, Walden University discusses that they also support ethical scholar-practitioners as they become professional role models through bettering societies (Walden University, 2015). This also aligns with my goals of influencing positive social change in my workplace, community, and society through my professional manner, evidence-based practice, clinical skills, and knowledge. In conclusion, utilizing an e-portfolio to showcase academic activities and accomplishments is crucial to staying aligned with personal and professional goals and managing competencies. My ultimate goal as a family nurse practitioner is to utilize my scholarly advancements to influence positive social change within my workplace, community, and society.
References
Burns, M. K. (2018). Creating a Nursing Portfolio. Ohio Nurses Review , 93 (3), 16–17.
Nastaran Najaffard, Mohammadi, A., Mojtahedzadeh, R., & Afagh Zarei. (2024). E-portfolio as an effective tool for improvement of practitioner nurses’ clinical competence. BMC Medical Education , 24 (1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12909-024-05092-z Links to an external site.
Walden University. (2015). Social change . Www.waldenu.edu Links to an external site. . https://www.waldenu.edu/why-walden/social-change Links to an external site.
Expand discussion thread from Allison George
Leticia Ariel Hernandez (She/Her)
Oct 14, 2024 10:58pm | Last reply Oct 19, 2024 9:18pm
Reply from Leticia Ariel Hernandez
Strategies for Academic Portfolios
Strategies to Promote Professional Development Goals
One of the approaches to integrating academic activities into the professional development plan is to keep an accurate and well-organized academic portfolio. This portfolio should record some of the accomplishments that the person has achieved in their career, including publications, presentations, research projects, certifications, and continuing efforts in education (Burns, 2015). In this manner, the portfolio can be used to monitor progress, demonstrate competence, and plan for future endeavors such as employment or promotion. This strategy is not only about career advancement but also about constant learning and academic success.
In addition, there is the strategy of establishing appropriate academic achievement targets aligning with career plans (Burns, 2015). For instance, a healthcare professional may aim to write articles to be published in scientific journals or deliver papers at conferences in the healthcare field. These academic achievements can be aligned to a comprehensive professional development strategy, such that every accomplishment is relevant and propels their career forward. By having tangible and timely objectives, professionals remain focused on academics and gain more experience and recognition in their disciplines.
It is also important to look for ways to collaborate with other students or mentors in academic and professional settings. Collaborating in research, writing articles, or working on projects allows people to expand their perspectives and enrich their portfolios (East, 2015). It not only enhances knowledge and skills but also builds professional contacts. Such affiliations may open up other academic prospects and contribute to pursuing professional aspirations. These collaborations may be incorporated into the professional portfolio to showcase the skills in teamwork and advancement of knowledge in the field. Collectively, these approaches enable attaining academic and career-related goals, thus creating a solid foundation for future progress.
Alignment with the University’s Emphasis on Social Change
The professional development goals of building academic achievements also correlate with the mission and goals of Walden University, as it highlights the importance of personal growth for the betterment of society. Walden supports the concept of education as a tool to assist an individual in addressing issues affecting society, and academic goals are relevant to this cause. For instance, if a nurse-scholar has done a study on health disparities or mental health among vulnerable groups, then the findings from such studies can inform policy advocacy or inform the development of effective health promotion interventions that will increase the use of health services. An example could be a nurse who investigates the mental health interventions that could be used on vulnerable groups. Through presenting this research at conferences or interacting with the health organizations in the area, the scholar contributes to the improvement of the health care of needy populations. These actions are consistent with Walden’s mission of preparing scholar-practitioners to advance positive change in their respective disciplines.
Walden University’s mission to foster social change is realized by empowering students. Learners with good career portfolios can play a major role in transforming society. From research, advocacy, or community involvement, the alignment of professional goals with the university’s mission means that students are not only building their careers but also improving society’s quality of life (East, 2015). The emphasis on social change helps in developing scholar-practitioners to transform society for the better.
References
Burns M. K. (2015). Creating a Nursing Portfolio. Ohio Nurses Review , 90 (2), S6–S7.
East, R. (2015). Developing a nurse practitioner portfolio.
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Cynthia Ngozika Ekenta
Oct 14, 2024 9:49pm | Last reply Oct 19, 2024 7:31pm
Reply from Cynthia Ngozika Ekenta
Professional Development Goals
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner student, my professional development goals include enhancing my clinical skills, participating in mental health research, and advocating for underrepresented groups. These objectives seek to improve my competence in providing effective mental health care while fostering commitment to social change and equity within the profession.
Strategies for Including Academic Activities and Accomplishments
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner student, engaging in research projects is crucial for my professional development. Conducting research augments my academic understanding and enables me to contribute to evidence-based practices in mental health care. Research is essential for guiding treatment decisions and enhancing patient outcomes. I can directly implement this knowledge in my clinical practice by examining research on therapeutic interventions. Research indicates that student participation in research activities markedly improves critical thinking abilities and enriches comprehension of clinical practices (Brady et al., 2018). Critical thinking is essential in psychiatric nursing, as it entails the analysis of intricate situations and formulating informed decisions. Research enables me to critically assess evidence, evaluate treatment alternatives, and gain a deeper understanding of mental health disorders. Establishing a goal to co-author a paper or present at a conference can yield significant experience and augment my resume. Presenting my findings enables me to interact with colleagues and specialists, obtain feedback, and enhance my concepts. This active involvement in research equips me for evidence-based practice, guaranteeing that my future care is grounded in the most current scientific evidence.
Participating in community outreach initiatives is essential for my professional development. These programs facilitate applying theoretical knowledge in practical contexts, enhancing mental health awareness and mitigating stigma. A study by Pescosolido et al. (2010) demonstrates that community outreach enhances mental health literacy and diminishes stigma, particularly within underserved populations. Defining explicit objectives, such as facilitating workshops or performing mental health evaluations, enables me to utilize my training and effectively affect a significant impact proficiently. Organizing a mental health awareness event can inform community members about available resources and the significance of seeking assistance. These outreach experiences enrich my educational journey and cultivate essential skills, including communication and advocacy. Interacting with diverse populations enhances my capacity to communicate intricate information and cultivate trust. Research participation and community outreach are essential to my growth as a psychiatric nurse practitioner, establishing my role as an advocate for mental health awareness and social reform.
Goals and Alignment with Walden University’s Social Change
Both strategies—conducting research and engaging in community outreach—align closely with Walden University’s dedication to social change. Conducting research enables me to augment the knowledge foundation that underpins effective mental health interventions, particularly for marginalized groups encountering distinct obstacles to care. Studies demonstrate that tackling social determinants of health, including socioeconomic status and resource accessibility, can markedly enhance mental health outcomes (Muntaner et al., 2019). This corresponds with Walden’s focus on addressing health disparities and promoting equitable care. Community outreach initiatives promote Walden’s mission by improving mental health literacy and diminishing stigma. Pescosolido et al. (2010) emphasize that outreach programs are essential for enhancing public comprehension of mental health matters. Engaging in awareness-promoting activities enables me to dismantle misconceptions and motivate individuals to pursue assistance. I seek to impact my professional development and the wider community through these efforts. By merging research with practical outreach, I can improve my clinical skills while advocating for the needs of those I assist. My dedication to research and community involvement reflects Walden University’s mission of fostering positive social change.
Reference
Brady, S. J., McKenzie, M., & O’Connor, M. (2018). Student involvement in research: A critical component of a baccalaureate nursing education. Nursing Education Perspectives , 39(3), 156–158. https://doi.org/10.1097/01.NEP.0000000000000278 Links to an external site.
Muntaner, C., Lynch, J., & Smith, G. D. (2001). Social capital, disorganized communities, and the third way: understanding the retreat from structural inequalities in epidemiology and public health. International journal of health services: planning, administration, evaluation , 31 (2), 213–237. https://doi.org/10.2190/NVW3-4HH0-74PX-AC38 Links to an external site.
Pescosolido, B. A., Medina, T. R., Martin, J. K., & Long, J. S. (2013). The “backbone” of stigma: identifying the global core of public prejudice associated with mental illness. American journal of public health , 103 (5), 853–860. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2012.301147 Links to an external site.
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Barbara A Shannon
Oct 14, 2024 5:42pm | Last reply Oct 20, 2024 10:16am
Reply from Barbara A Shannon
Strategies for Including Academic Activities and Accomplishments
Incorporating academic activities and accomplishments into professional development is a key aspect of advancing your career and making a broader impact. One strategy for integrating academic activities into your professional development is actively seeking certifications, workshops, and continuing education that align with your field of expertise (Kumar et al., 2020). For example, as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), obtaining additional certifications in trauma-informed care, substance abuse treatment, or geriatric psychiatry could enhance your clinical skills and broaden your scope of practice (Kumar et al., 2020). This ensures you remain current with evolving standards in mental health care, strengthening both your personal and professional growth (Happell et al., 2022). This aligns with Walden University’s social change by acquiring new skills that enable you to provide better care to underserved and vulnerable populations. By staying up to date with the latest evidence-based practices, you can help reduce health disparities and promote mental well-being, which aligns with Walden University’s mission to foster positive social change through education and service to the community (Singh et al., 2022).
Another strategy is to engage in academic research or publish scholarly articles that contribute to the knowledge base in your field (Fraino & Selix, 2021). By participating in research initiatives, conducting studies, or writing articles on mental health care, you can influence practice standards, contribute to the improvement of patient care, and establish yourself as an expert in your specialty (Fraino & Selix, 2021). Engaging in research can also provide opportunities to present at conferences, which further solidifies your role in shaping the field (Fraino & Selix, 2021). This aligns with Walden University’s social change by contributing to research and knowledge dissemination, you advance healthcare policies and practices that can have a significant impact on public health. Sharing insights through publications and conferences helps educate other professionals and raise awareness about pressing issues such as mental health stigma, access to care, and community-based interventions, thus supporting the broader goal of creating a healthier, more equitable society (Happell et al., 2022).
Goals and Alignment with Walden University’s Social Change
Walden University emphasizes creating social change through knowledge application, advocacy, and service to the community. By pursuing continuous learning and contributing to the academic and clinical community, you are actively working toward improving mental health care systems, reducing disparities, and advancing public health initiatives—all of which are crucial components of social change (Hammoudi Halat et al., 2023). Whether through direct patient care, research, or education, these strategies ensure that your professional development is intertwined with making a positive impact in your community and beyond (Fraino & Selix, 2021).
References
Fraino, J., & Selix, N. (2021). Facilitating Well-Rounded Clinical Experience for Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Students. The journal for nurse practitioners: JNP , 17 (8), 1004–1009. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.nurpra.2021.05.015 Links to an external site.
Hammoudi Halat, D., Soltani, A., Dalli, R., Alsarraj, L., & Malki, A. (2023). Understanding andFostering Mental Health and Well-Being among University Faculty: A Narrative Review. Journal of clinical medicine , 12 (13), 4425. https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm12134425
Happell, B., Donovan, A. O., Warner, T., Sharrock, J., & Gordon, S. (2022). Creating ortaking opportunity: Strategies for implementing expert by experience positions in mentalhealth academia. Journal of Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing , 29, 592–602. https://doi.org/10.1111/jpm.12839 Links to an external site.
Kumar, A., Kearney, A., Hoskins, K., & Iyengar, A. (2020). The role of psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners in improving mental and behavioral health care delivery for children and adolescents in multiple settings. Archives of psychiatric nursing , 34 (5), 275–280. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.apnu.2020.07.022 Links to an external site.
Singh, V., Kumar, A., & Gupta, S. (2022). Mental Health Prevention and Promotion-A Narrative Review. Frontiers in psychiatry , 13 , 898009. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyt.2022.898009
Walden University. (n.d.). Social change . https://www.waldenu.edu/why-walden/social-change Links to an external site.
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Erin Roecker
Oct 14, 2024 1:45pm | Last reply Oct 19, 2024 11:23am
Reply from Erin Roecker
Strategies for Including Academic Activities and Accomplishments
By including academic accomplishments into one’s professional development goals one can enhance their skill set and make themselves for marketable. This can be done by choosing academic interests that benefit personal goals. For example, if a registered nurse wants to be a nurse manager a degree in leadership or management would be beneficial both academically and personally. In my case, I have a personal goal of becoming a nurse practitioner, thus a master’s degree in nursing with an interest in FNP makes sense both academically and personally. Another way to include academic accomplishments into one’s professional development goals is by showcasing those accomplishments as a portfolio. According to an article regarding nursing portfolios, “A professional portfolio is a compilation of carefully selected materials that document the nurse’s competencies. The materials placed in a portfolio illustrate the background skills, and expertise of the nurse (Oermann, 2002).” This portfolio can include certifications, special skillsets and any pertinent projects. Portfolios serves as concrete evidence of a nurse’s skillset and background.
Goals and Alignment with Walden University’s Social Change
According to the Walden University mission statement, “Walden University provides a diverse community of career professionals with the opportunity to transform themselves as scholar-practitioners so that they can effect positive social change (Walden University, n.d.).” My aim is to transform myself into a compassionate, understanding, and caring provider so I can make positive social change in my community. My hope is to continue working for Indian health services in the state of Alaska which has such a large need for compassionate and educated providers to serve the rural population here. Promoting social change can be achieved through advocacy, culturally competent care and education. Social change is also achieved by bridging the gap between lack of care due to provider shortages in Alaska. Midlevel’s help bridge that gap and get more people access to care. According to an article regarding outmigration of Native Alaskans, access to care was a large factor in moving from rural to urban areas. “Barriers preventing access to social services such as health care diminish the quality of life of residents in rural Alaska and may motivate rural residents to seek such services elsewhere (Driscoll, Dotterrer, Miller, & Voorhees, 2010).” By bridging that gap through social change hopefully more Native Alaskans can get what they need where they currently reside.
References:
Driscoll, D., Dotterrer, B., Miller, J., & Voorhees, H. (2010). Assessing the influence of health on rural outmigration in Alaska. International Journal of Circumpolar Health , 69 (5), 528–544. https://doi.org/10.3402/ijch.v69i5.17683 Links to an external site.
Oermann MH. (2002). Developing a professional portfolio in nursing. Orthopaedic Nursing , 21 (2), 73–78. https://doi.org/10.1097/00006416-200203000-00013 Links to an external site.
Walden University. (n.d.). Social change . https://www.waldenu.edu/why-walden/social-change Links to an external site.
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Romel Suason
Oct 14, 2024 12:52pm | Last reply Oct 18, 2024 6:41pm
Reply from Romel Suason
Strategies for Academic Portfolios
Portfolio-based learning for nursing professionals is associated with developing professional self-concept, a crucial aspect of professionalism in nursing that translates into excellence in care. Specifically, through portfolio learning, nursing interns learn the various aspects of professional self-concepts, such as building self-esteem, caring, communication, professional knowledge, staff relations, and leadership (Mohajer et al., 2023). The ultimate result of such learning by nursing students is improved overall confidence in the care offered to various population members. Therefore, this post will discuss at least two strategies that nurses could use to build their portfolios with examples.
The portfolio is a workplace-based tool for monitoring and reflecting on clinical practice (Najaffard et al., 2024). It enhances nursing clinical competence development to ensure effective patient care (Najaffard et al., 2024). Developing an effective nurse portfolio provides a clinical governance tool that will foster nursing students’ learning and assessment of their clinical competence (Najaffard et al., 2024). Therefore, developing a high-quality nurse portfolio is crucial to developing clinical competence and translates to effective patient care. One strategy that nurses could utilize to build their portfolios is employing e-portfolio tools and templates. A shift to the utilization of electronic machinery to simplify and streamline work in all areas of life has resulted from the adoption of technological advances in various aspects of life. In the development of portfolios, using e-portfolios resulted in a significant increase in knowledge and performance scores demonstrated by the nurses (Najaffard et al., 2024). Additionally, the e-portfolio improves nurses’ awareness and performance in clinical governance due to their utilization to develop a comprehensive nursing portfolio (Najaffard et al., 2024). One of the strategies nurses could use in building their portfolio is an e-portfolio, which enhances knowledge in portfolio building, simplifies portfolio development, and enhances nurses’ clinical competence.
The other strategy nurses could use to include academic activities and accomplishments into their professional development goals is listing their academic achievements and activities in their professional portfolio and aligning them with future professional goals. Focusing on work histories, grants, and professional networking opportunities through research and conference speeches could help nurses identify other professional goals that would be of value to their professional development (Burns, 2018). Other areas of focus include listing academic activities that align with involvement in the community and expert recommendations received throughout the nurse’s academic journey (Burns, 2018). Outlining these recommendations would open the nurse’s eyes to future professional development opportunities that could be developed into professional goals guiding further clinical and professional nursing practice
competence.
Professional development goals through portfolio creation align with the university’s emphasis on social change by highlighting areas that the nurse could develop to enhance their contribution to society. The nurse could identify impact areas where they could lend their expertise to improve community well-being. An example is through professional networking to identify gaps in community health that the nurse could help address. The conduction of community health assessments will allow the nurse to decipher how to apply their academic and clinical competencies as resources to address challenges occurring locally, regionally, and globally. Further, engaging with community members will increase the nurse’s awareness of social justice issues affecting the community served by the nurse. By developing professional networks to fight these social injustices, the nurse will contribute to community reparative processes and result in positive social change. Therefore, developing a professional self-concept through portfolio building will allow nurses to apply their professional expertise to effect social change.
References
Burns, M. K. (2018). Creating a nursing portfolio. Ohio Nurses Review , 93 (3), 16–17.
Mohajer, S., Yoong, L. T., Chan, M. C., Danaee, M., Mazlum, R. S., & Bagheri, N. (2023). The effect of professional portfolio learning on nursing students’ professional self-concepts in geriatric adult internship: a quasi-experimental study. BMC Medical Education , 23 (114). https://doi.org/10.1186%2Fs12909-023-04097-4 Links to an external site.
Najaffard, N., Mohammadi, A., Mojtahedzagdeh, R., & Zarei, A. (2024). E-portfolio as an effective tool for improvement of practitioner nurses’ clinical competence. BMC Medical Education , 24 (114). https://doi.org/10.1186%2Fs12909-024-05092-z Links to an external site.
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Caitlin J Mcelhaney
Oct 14, 2024 11:44am | Last reply Oct 18, 2024 6:36pm
Reply from Caitlin J Mcelhaney
Professional Development Goals
One of my primary professional development goals is to enhance my clinical expertise in psychiatric nursing by incorporating evidence-based practices (EBP) into my daily patient care. This involves staying updated with the latest research and clinical guidelines to improve patient outcomes, particularly in behavioral health settings. Another key goal is to pursue leadership roles in mental health initiatives, both within my organization and in broader professional nursing networks. By doing so, I aim to contribute to the advancement of mental health care, reduce health disparities, and promote a culture of continuous improvement in nursing practice. According to Melnyk et al. (2017), the implementation of EBP not only improves healthcare quality but also equips practitioners with the necessary skills to lead and influence change, aligning well with my career aspirations to drive positive outcomes in mental health care settings.
Strategies for Including Academic Activities and Accomplishments
Incorporating academic activities and accomplishments into professional development goals is essential for bridging the gap between scholarly work and practical application in a clinical setting. One effective strategy is incorporating research and evidence-based practice (EBP). Engaging in research related to psychiatric nursing interventions and applying EBP in clinical care can enhance a practitioner’s role by improving patient outcomes and advancing the field. For instance, studying therapeutic communication in patients with schizophrenia and implementing new communication strategies in practice not only demonstrates leadership in clinical innovation but also contributes to professional growth (Melnyk et al., 2017). Another strategy is engaging in academic leadership and mentorship. Taking leadership roles in professional organizations or mentoring other nurses offers valuable experience and networking opportunities. For example, mentoring nursing students on research or clinical decision-making can enhance leadership skills, aligning with professional development by fostering collaboration and promoting career advancement (Yoder-Wise, 2019).
Goals and Alignment with Walden University’s Social Change
Walden University places a strong emphasis on social change by encouraging the use of academic knowledge to address real-world issues. Aligning professional goals with evidence-based practice (EBP) contributes to this mission, as it promotes positive social change by improving patient outcomes, reducing health disparities, and enhancing community health. Through research and EBP, professionals can make a direct impact on society by addressing pressing healthcare challenges (Walden University, 2020). Additionally, engaging in academic leadership and mentorship helps develop skilled healthcare professionals, empowering them to contribute to systemic improvements in healthcare. By mentoring future nurses or leading within professional organizations, individuals foster a culture of continuous improvement and innovation, which aligns with Walden’s vision of nurturing agents of social change. Ultimately, integrating academic accomplishments into professional development not only facilitates personal growth but also contributes to societal well-being and aligns with the university’s commitment to social responsibility and positive impact.
References:
Melnyk, B. M., Fineout-Overholt, E., Gallagher-Ford, L., & Kaplan, L. (2017). The state of evidence-based practice in US nurses: Critical implications for nurse leaders and educators . Journal of Nursing Administration, 47(7/8), 379-384.
Walden University. (2020). About social change . https://www.waldenu.edu/about/social-change
Yoder-Wise, P. S. (2019). Leading and managing in nursing (7th ed.). Elsevier.
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Lisa Starkey
Oct 14, 2024 7:16am | Last reply Oct 17, 2024 11:21am
Reply from Lisa Starkey
Discussion 5
Professional Development Goals
My professional development goals are specific and focus on enhancing my knowledge and expertise in the psychiatric mental health field, explicitly obtaining advanced certifications, and engaging in evidence-based research that highlights underserved communities and addresses health disparities. Developing a professional portfolio showcases my academic capabilities and emphasizes my ability to conduct evidence-based research while presenting findings effectively. These contributions to my field ultimately support improved patient outcomes and promote social change ( Burns, 2018 ).
Strategies for Including Academic Activities and Accomplishments
A compelling portfolio development strategy may include a detailed record of documenting key academic projects, presentations, research papers, and capstone projects. For example, my collaboration with faculty and peers on research focused on mental health interventions for underserved populations. Showcasing my academic accomplishments enhances my knowledge while providing opportunities to publish findings that support me in gaining valuable insights to shape my professional practice ( Siddiqui et al., 2022 ). The presentation of research findings dedicated to mental health has the potential to bolster my credentials and foster broader discussions in support of improving mental health access. I am allowed to network and become exposed to the latest developments in the mental health space. The exposure will enable me to incorporate new ideas and best practices ( Schmidt, n.d. ).
Goals and Alignment with Walden University’s Social Change
Walden University’s emphasis on social change aligns with my professional development goals of serving the mental health population to improve health outcomes. Investigating effective interventions for populations often encountering systemic barriers to care will promote reducing care gaps in mental health services. My advanced certificate aligns with Walden’s commitment to creating a positive social impact. Walden’s dedication to critical thinking, research, and discovery cultivates scholarly and reflective professionals. I aspire to be in alignment with providing quality mental health services. Based on my experience thus far at Walden, I will be fully equipped to advocate for equitable mental health services, given the existing disparities within healthcare ( Academics: Student Catalog, Handbook, and University Guidebooks: Student Catalog, Student Handbook, and University Guidebooks , n.d. ).
References
Academics: Student catalog, handbook, and university guidebooks: Student catalog, student handbook, and university guidebooks . (n.d.). Retrieved August 27, 2024, from Links to an external site. https://catalog.waldenu.edu Links to an external site.
Burns, M. K. (2018). Creating a nursing portfolio. Ohio Nurses Review , 93 (3), 16–17. Links to an external site.
Schmidt, K. (n.d.). 5 reasons nurses should engage in professional networking . BluePipes Blog. Retrieved August 27, 2024, from Links to an external site. https://blog.bluepipes.com/5-reasons-nurses-should-take-professional-networking-seriously/ Links to an external site.
Siddiqui, Z., Fisher, M. B., Slade, C., Downer, T., Kirby, M. M., McAllister, L., Isbel, S. T., & Christine Brown Wilson. (2022). Twelve tips for introducing e-portfolios in health professions education. Medical Teacher , 45 (2), 139–144. Links to an external site. https://doi.org/10.1080/0142159x.2022.2053085
