Perceptions and readiness of nurses, nurse educators, and nursing students towards the incorporation of micro-credentials

Abstract

Micro-credentials are increasingly important in nursing as healthcare knowledge rapidly evolves. Using a qualitative descriptive approach, the study explored the perceptions and readiness of nurses, nurse educators, and nursing students regarding the incorporation of micro-credentials to advance their career goals and employability. Qualitative interviews were conducted among 5 final-year students, 6 senior lecturers at the School of Nursing (SN), the Maldives National University, and 6 nurse managers from three tertiary hospitals in the Maldives. Perspectives and readiness regarding the understanding of micro-credentials and the factors influencing their implementation in nursing were identified among students, nurse educators, and nurse managers. Additionally, nurse educators and nurse managers discussed the importance of establishing a micro-credential framework, aligning this framework with regulatory bodies, and its broader implications. The study provides valuable insights into stakeholders’ readiness, preferences, and expectations, highlighting key perspectives on fostering flexible and modular learning pathways for the nursing profession.