The curriculum—a scaffold for learning in a work-based environment

This study’s aim was to explore how the formal curriculum for a Bachelor of Nursing describes the first clinical placement in a work-based learning environment. The formal curriculum involves documents with an interconnected nature which describe the planned program of learning outcomes and learning experiences. To address the aim, we conducted a qualitative document analysis guided by the following research question: How is the connection between learning outcomes, learning activities, and learning situations described in formal curriculum related to the first clinical placement? Findings: Group 1) Limited connection: Learning outcomes and learning activities were generally described. Group 2) Some connection: Learning outcomes were generally described, more elaboration on learning activities. Group 3) Clear connection: Some learning outcomes were omitted, extensive descriptions of learning activities and learning situations. Findings show a need for curriculum development which clarifies learning processes in a work-based environment that can help students to achieve learning outcomes.