The Need and Perception of 21st Century Skills Among Nursing Professionals and Nursing Educators in Southwest Ohio

Date of Award

12-1-2023

Degree Name

Ph.D. in Educational Leadership

Department

Department of Educational Administration

Advisor/Chair

Advisor: Thomas Lasley

Abstract

This quantitative dissertation study explored the perceptions of higher education professionals and healthcare employers regarding 21st century skill preparation for healthcare careers in Southwest Ohio. The study examined whether there were differences in perceptions between these two groups about the importance of specific 21st century skills for career success in the medical career area of nursing. The study was guided by the following research questions: • What were the perceived importance levels of 21st century skills for career success in nursing careers in Southwest Ohio? • Did higher education professionals and healthcare employers have different perceptions of the importance of 21st century skills for career success in nursing? • What were the perceived strengths and weaknesses of higher education programs in preparing healthcare candidates for 21st century skills? Data were collected from a survey of higher education professionals and healthcare employers in Southwest Ohio. The survey measured the perceived importance of 21st century skills for career success in the field of nursing. The survey also asked respondents to rate the strengths and weaknesses of higher education programs in preparing healthcare candidates for 21st century skills. The findings of the study revealed that there were some differences in perceptions between higher education professionals and healthcare employers about the importance of specific 21st century skills for career success in healthcare. For example, both groups agreed that critical thinking and problem-solving were important skills, but healthcare employers placed a higher emphasis on teamwork and communication skills. The findings of this study have implications for higher education professionals and healthcare employers. Higher education programs can use the findings to identify areas where they can improve their preparation of healthcare candidates for 21st century skills. Healthcare employers can use the findings to better understand the skills that they are looking for in new hires. The study's findings are also relevant to policymakers and students. Policymakers can use the findings to develop initiatives to improve the workforce skills of healthcare professionals. Students can use the findings to make informed decisions about their education and career goals.

Keywords

21st Century Skills, Skill Gaps, Workforce, Higher Education, Nursing, Ohio, Creativity, Collaboration, Communication, Critical Thinking

Rights Statement

Copyright © 2023, author.

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