Abstract

Enhancing Inclusive Nursing Education: Reasonable Adjustments and Reverse Mentoring in Clinical Skills Development
Kate Newby Head of the University of Sunderland Centre for Inclusive Learning (USCIL). Faculty Academic Support Lead Nursing & Midwifery.
University of Sunderland. UK

Abstract:
In an increasingly diverse healthcare landscape, nursing education must prioritise inclusivity to ensure all students are supported and equipped to succeed in clinical practice. This keynote will explore innovative strategies for embedding reasonable adjustments within nursing education, with a particular focus on clinical skills development. Drawing on the principles of Universal Design for Learning (UDL), I will highlight how tailored approaches can create equitable learning environments, enabling students with diverse needs to fully engage in practical training and skill acquisition.
Additionally, the session will delve into the transformative potential of the student voice and using reverse mentoring as a method to embed this in Higher Education. By fostering collaborative relationships where students mentor educators, reverse mentoring promotes reciprocal learning and cultural competence. This approach challenges traditional hierarchies and empowers students to share their lived experiences, particularly those from underrepresented groups, enriching the educational experience for both students and faculty.
Case studies from clinical education settings will be shared, illustrating how reasonable adjustments and reverse mentoring initiatives have enhanced student outcomes and fostered a more inclusive and compassionate learning environment. By championing these strategies, nursing education can better prepare future healthcare professionals to meet the needs of a diverse patient population.
This keynote will inspire educators, administrators, and practitioners to rethink traditional approaches to clinical skills training and mentorship, ensuring that inclusivity is at the heart of nursing education worldwide.