Reverse Mentoring and Intergenerational Learning in Nursing Bridging generational diversity

Abstract

This article aimed to discuss the scope of reverse mentoring and intergenerational learning in nursing. Accordingly, it discusses the characteristics, significance, benefits, conceptual framework, implementation strategy and application of reverse mentoring in nursing. Reverse mentoring occurs when a technically competent younger employee mentors a senior experienced employee and reciprocally exchanges the work culture and soft skills. Diverse intergenerational learning spurs innovation through the sharing of knowledge, skills, competencies, norms and values. Thus, reverse mentoring helps to enhance the quality of education, practice-outcomes and employee development. It should be adopted for a multigenerational workforce to promote diversity, keep employees technically competent and updated in ever-changing nursing profession. Presently, the COVID-19 pandemic has given rise to an urgent need for technical competency and knowledge sharing among the diverse multigenerational nursing workforce. Therefore, a reverse-mentoring strategy is proposed as a sustainable cost-effective intergenerational knowledge-sharing tool for the current era of economic crisis.