100 bachelor students participated in a research project integrated in their clinical placements. They assessed patients admitted at a certain date/time regarding pain/pain intensity and risk of decubitus, falling and nutritional problems. In the current study is examined the students' learning experiences from participating in this project through focus group interviews. Data analysis of electronically recorded and transcribed interviews following Braun and Clarke's six phases of thematic analysis. Although pressed for time the students felt able to adapt their communication to patients' various situations, explain about the project, receive a signed consent form, and do the data collection. During the project they had honed their communicative skills, become more confident, and able to utilise their theoretical knowledge to reflect, observe, assess, and act. They were able to attune their communication to the various patients and create a trusting relationship which made the assessments possible in spite of the brevity of their meetings. In spite of this mainly interpersonal focus we trust that this first empirical research experience will enhance their ability to read and understand research papers. Furthermore, the students found they had learned a lot and acquired greater understanding of the connection between theory and practical patient work.
Keywords: Communication; Interpersonal skills; Learning outcomes; Research participation.
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