Evaluating the social-learning environment of a regional men in nursing conference

Abstract

Barriers and challenges such as the lack of role models exist for men in nursing. Efforts are needed to provide opportunities for men in nursing to discuss, engage, and network with other men about issues of importance to them. To address this need, a regional conference for men in nursing was held. The utility of this conference specific for men in nursing was evaluated for its ability to provide a space and forum dedicated to men in nursing for socializing and learning with other men in nursing. An exploratory qualitative design was used to examine the experiences of conference attendees. Respondents (n = 62) anonymously completed a program evaluation tool. The qualitative data were analyzed using a constant comparative analysis method. Five themes were derived from the qualitative data: Conference Logistics, Effectiveness of Presenters, Key Messages from the Presentations, Men in Nursing, and Challenges Men in Nursing Face. Future conferences need to incorporate more clinically-oriented topics with speakers specifically discussing the importance of their content for men in nursing.