Creating a Community of Nurse Educator Scholars: The QSEN Academic Task Force Success

Abstract

Background: Engaging in scholarship is a critical component of being an effective nurse educator and can have a significant impact on the nursing profession as a whole. Problem: Nurse educators are expected to teach and simultaneously engage in scholarship. Barriers include heavy workloads and lack of resources including faculty mentors. Evidence supports that organized work groups support success. Approach: Members of the Quality and Safety Education for Nurses (QSEN) Academic Task force were queried about scholarly activity as a result of engagement with fellow task force members. Outcomes: Scholarly outcomes included numerous peer-reviewed publications, teaching tips, presentations, and grants. Conclusion: Participating in national work groups can serve as a platform for fostering a community of scholars to make meaningful contributions to the profession.