Discussion: Strategies for Academic Portfolios

Discussion: Strategies for Academic Portfolios

Discussion: Strategies for Academic Portfolios

The field of nursing requires adaptation to a constantly changing group of patient issues. As we advance our careers academically, nurses are increasingly asked to consider their role beyond the simple clinical issues they face in the workplace. Aside from work-related discipline, nurses are often left with few ways of measurably distinguishing themselves from their counterparts aside from work experience. Many of us has heard “no one cares about your Grade Point Average (G.P.A.) once you start working” in their time. While the accuracy of that statement is debatable, it is revelatory in that it highlights the diverse array of qualities expected from a nurse beyond their academic competency and work experience.

In researching this assignment’s topics, I came across an article that discussed an idea very similar to the nurse-familiar concept of evidence-based practice. The term discussed, social entrepreneurship, is defined as using pragmatic and results-oriented methods to bring about social change in the business world (Altman & Brinker, 2016). Comparatively, nurses seeking to further their careers must focus on ways of highlighting similar attributes to express their value effectively to prospective employers. With the goal of better nurses and better patient outcomes in the forefront, it is imperative that nurses take this part of their roles just as seriously as they do any other.

A modern approach to this challenge is to develop and maintain a professional portfolio. Asking me to maintain any sort of portfolio has been somewhat of a challenge. Compounding that fact, I wasn’t the best student early in nursing school and struggled a lot with non-school related issues that made it hard for me. I found the cake mix structure explained in the article The use of professional portfolios and profiles for career enhancement to be an ideal approach for me to take in developing my portfolio (Casey & Egan, 2013). This concept utilizes a reflective narrative to tie evidence together which enables a greater focus on the personal learning journeys, reflection, and the development of personal qualities (Casey & Egan, 2013). This approach will allow me to highlight the volunteer work I have done that relates to my focus on social change. A focus that I am very glad aligns with Walden’s aim provide me with the tools I need to address the immediate solutions of critical societal challenges (Walden University, 2022).

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            The quality I would most like to get across in my portfolio would be adaptability. I would like to feature my continual self-reflection on clinical and academic experiences in the forefront (Mcmillan et. al, 2014). To highlight my own skills, I find that an e-portfolio would be my best bet as it provides a structure for planning the way my career progresses (Mcmillan et al, 2014). With the little psych experience I currently have, developing and maintaining an e-portfolio and utilizing the aforementioned “cake mix structure approach” as an asset of self-reflection will give me more control over the way my value as a nurse is expressed.

One of the most important things someone can do to highlight their academic activities and accomplishments is by including them in their professional portfolio. By creating a professional portfolio one can aid in their own professional development through the process of creating their portfolio (Casey, D. & Egan, D. 2013). Personally, I really like having an ePortfolio. Currently I have a small version of an ePortfolio with LinkedIn. Hannans and Olivo state the importance of having an online presence in the form of a professional profile so that when potential employers search your name, they can see your potential and not just your personal image posts (2017). This goal of presenting yourself in a professional manner aligns with Walden University’s emphasis on social change because to be able to affect positive change one must first show that they are professional, trustworthy, and have a solid education to stand on and all of this can be done by creating one’s professional portfolio.
Another great way to build on one’s professional development is through continued education.
Using academic activities to improve oneself builds on your existing knowledge and education, which in turn helps with continued professional development. An example of this is what we are doing right now – going through our Masters Program. I find that I am reading things and learning things that I can use in my daily nursing practice. I know that I will continue to learn and therefore grow as a professional throughout my educational program. When this program is done I think that continuing education and going to conferences to continue learning and growing academically and professionally will be a must. To be an affective change agent one must be willing to continually grow and never become stagnant.


References
Casey, D. & Egan, D. (2013). The use of professional portfolios for career enhancement. British Journal of Nursing, 15(11),547-552. doi:10.12968/bjcn.2010.15.11.79625

Hannans, J. & Olivo, Y. (2017). Craft a positive nursing digital identity within ePortfolio.American Nurse Today, 12(11), 48-49. Retrieved July 20, 2021, fromhttps://www.americannursetoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/ant11-Digital-Identity-1017a-1.pdf

Walden University. (n.d.). Walden University catalog. Retrieved July 20, 2021, fromhttps://catalog.waldenu.edu/preview_program.php?catoid=179&poid=72167&returnto=65560

Step 1: Research Analysis

Complete the table below

Topic of Interest:

Alice in Wonderland Syndrome

Research Article: Include full citation in APA format, as well as link or search details (such as DOI)

O’Toole, P., & Modestino, E. J. (2017). Alice in Wonderland Syndrome: A real life version of Lewis Carroll’s novel. Brain and Development, 39(6), 470–474. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0387760417300049

Professional Practice Use:

One or more professional practice uses of the theories/concepts presented in the article

The concepts contained in the article by O’Toole & Modestino (2017) can be used in providing health education to the patients. Healthcare providers can utilize information about the pathophysiology of the syndrome to educate the affected populations about its potential causes. The concepts can also be used in nursing research. The article shows that inconclusive evidence on the pathophysiology of Alice in Wonderland Syndrome exists. As a result, it can be used in research to explore further the syndrome to inform nursing practice. Lastly, it can be used in health promotion. The population can be informed to avoid risk factors associated with the syndrome such as topiramate medications.

Research Analysis Matrix

Add more rows if necessary

Strengths of the Research

Limitations of the Research

Relevancy to Topic of Interest

Notes

Scholars in neuroscience conducted the study, which increases the relevance and applicability of the information.

The arguments are entirely based on other studies and not investigations done on human beings

The article increases our understanding of the mechanisms that contribute to the development of Alice in Wonderland Syndrome. It also identifies critical issues in practice that can be addressed through research.

The article provides great insights into Alice in Wonderland Syndrome. It enhances our understanding about its causes, diagnostic features and aspects of management that can be considered in practice. It also widens our understanding about the potential areas of research that can be explored to increase our understanding of the syndrome.

The research provides comprehensive analysis of the topic to increase the understanding of the readers.

The authors used also sources of information, which may affect the relevance of the assertions made in the article

   

The authors used simple language that general population can easily understand

     

It provides insights into gaps in knowledge and practice to be explored in future research

     
       
       
       
       
       
       

Step 2: Summary of Analysis

            The approach that was applied in the identification of the above peer-reviewed article entailed doing a search of literature in PubMEd database. The search entails the use of specific keywords that included Alice in Wonderland Syndrome, pathophysiology of Alice in Wonderland Syndrome and causes. The search yielded four articles. The above article was selected after inclusion criteria such as relevance, year of publication, and its focus of analysis were applied.

            One of the strategies that I would use that I found effective in finding peer-reviewed research is developing inclusion and exclusion criteria. Inclusion and exclusion criteria help in filtering the sources. It also increases the accuracy of search results. The other strategy is the use of Boolean Operators. Boolean Operators such as and, or, and not increase the accuracy of search results (Dingwall & Staniland, 2020). I will use a number of resources in the future to find peer-reviewed research. One of them is professional databases. I will use databases such as EMBASE, CINAHL, and PubMed to access the resources that I need for research. I will also use the references used in articles to locate other articles of interest to my topic of research (Houser, 2021).

Discussion: Strategies for Academic Portfolios Conclusion

            Overall, nurses should have knowledge in accessing peer-reviewed sources of evidence. Peer-reviewed sources of evidence provide highly accurate and reliable data to inform nursing practice. It is important that nurses identify different resources for use to inform their practice. Through it, they acquire competencies for supporting evidence-based practice in their institutions.

Discussion: Strategies for Academic Portfolios References

Dingwall, R., & Staniland, K. (2020). Qualitative Research Methods for Nurses. SAGE Publications.

Houser, J. (2021). Nursing Research: Reading, Using, and Creating Evidence. Jones & Bartlett Learning.

O’Toole, P., & Modestino, E. J. (2017). Alice in Wonderland Syndrome: A real life version of Lewis Carroll’s novel. Brain and Development, 39(6), 470–474.

As a student it is important to know of strategies for incorporating academic activities into professional goals.  When it comes time to search for a job, potential employers may request, research, and inquire about a candidate’s scholarly activities.  Academic activities make a student stand out from the crowd and demonstrate that the candidate values their programs mission and goals.  An eportfolio is a great way for students to track, organize, and broadcast their academic and professional experiences and skills.  Hannans and Olivo (2017) discusses eportfolios for nurses as being the full picture of who you are professionally in your field of work.  Hannans and Olivo (2017) also discuss how eportolios may become a requirement in the future to prospective job candidates, so they state, “why not be ahead of the game” (p.2).

One strategy I aim to use to build some academic activities into my professional development is to join the nurses honor society as Walden University.  Sigma Theta Tau is an international nurse’s honor society and nursing students at Walden University are automatically invited to join the organization at different times throughout the year.  The nursing honor society at Walden University has a mission to “support the learning, knowledge, and professional development of nurses committed to making a difference in health worldwide” (Walden University, n.d, para. 1).  The honor society aims at educating and empowering a generation of nurses who will lead using their knowledge and services to create a work of improved health for the people (Walden University, n.d).  This mission and vision that the society portrays relates well to my professional goal of being able to provide care as a nurse practitioner in my rural area of living, closing some of the care gaps the people face.

Another strategy I have for incorporating an academic activity into my professional development is to join the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) organization.  The mission of the AANP is to empower all nurse practitioners to “advance accessible, person-centered, equitable, high-quality care for diverse communities through practice, education, advocacy, research, and leadership” (AANP, n.d, para.1).  According to Crumley (2020) nurses have many benefits from joining organizations related to their field, interest, and specialties.  Professional organizations can provide nurses and advanced practice providers networking and educational opportunities (Crumley, 2020).  Professional organizations also advocate for nurses to be able to provide the best services to patients and their communities (Crumley, 2020).  Joining one of these organizations helps me to stay up to date on education opportunities and to be involved in a community of individuals whose goal is to support patients and their communities.

Walden University emphasizes social change for all their degree programs.  The social change specific to the field of nursing is to create practitioners who are community based and active in trying to create a positive change for humans and social conditions (Walden University, n.d).  My goal of becoming a nurse practitioner aligns with Walden’s belief of partnering with communities to create social change.  I plan to work as a family nurse practitioner in my rural area community.  Many people in my community have a hard time finding or getting access to family medicine providers.  I will serve my community by offering care to the underprivileged.  Another goal of mine is to be a continuous learner.  By being affiliated with honor and organizational societies, I will be able to stay engaged in new learning and education opportunities for my field. This will align with Walden’s social change practices by allowing me to provider the most up to date and patient centered care available to my community.

Discussion: Strategies for Academic Portfolios References

AANP. (n.d).  Strategic Focus. Retrieved from https://www.aanp.org/

Crumley, C. (2020). The Benefits of Active Engagement in Nursing Professional Organizations: A View From Here. Journal of Wound, Ostomy &                     Continence Nursing47(6), 547. https://doi.org/10.1097/WON.0000000000000700

Hannans, J. & Olivo, Y. (2017). Craft a positive nursing digital identity with an ePortfolio. American Nurse Today, 12(11), 48-49. Retrieved October 13, 2022,                   from https://www.americannursetoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/ant11-Digital-Identity-1017a-1.pdf

Walden University. (n.d). Sigma Theta Tau: Home. Retrieved from https://academicguides.waldenu.edu/student-organizations/sigma-theta-tau

Walden University. (n.d). Social Change. Retrieved from https://www.waldenu.edu/why-walden/social-change

Assignment: Academic Success and Professional Development Plan Part 5: Professional Development

In this week’s Discussion you were introduced to the concept of an academic portfolio to begin building your own brand. Portfolios have value that go beyond brand-building however. An academic and professional portfolio can also help you to build your own vision and mission and establish your development goals. In this regard, a portfolio becomes yet another tool in your toolbox as you build your success.

ORDER NOW FOR AN ORIGINAL PAPER ASSIGNMENT: Discussion: Strategies for Academic Portfolios

In this Assignment you will continue developing your Academic Success and Professional Development Plan by developing the fifth component: a portfolio for your academic and professional efforts.

To Prepare:

Consider your goals for academic accomplishments while a student of the MSN program.

The Assignment:

Using the Academic Success and Professional Development Plan Template in which you began to work on in Week 1, and have continued working on through this course, in Part 5, you will create a fully developed and accurate curriculum vitae (CV) based on your current education and professional background.
Clearly identify and accurately state in detail your professional development goals.
Clearly and accurately state in detail how to accurately and appropriately align one or more of your professional development goals with the University’s emphasis on social change.
Note: Add your work for this Assignment to the original document you began in the Week 1 Assignment, which was built off of the Academic Success and Professional Development Plan Template.

A portfolio has always been used as a personal brag sheet. I have used a portfolio for the military, many times to showcase my skills and training. It is something anyone in any profession can use to say, “This is me. This is what I have accomplished”. “The Nurse can use a portfolio to document the competencies and achievements during evaluations and for applications regarding promotions or awards” (Burns, 2018).  

I would include my education credentials, certifications, and work experience in my personal portfolio. This is where the foundation for my professional development plan would start because you can only build a substantial house with a firm foundation. One strategy to add to my development plan would be to join a professional nursing organization to keep my ear on the ground for new techniques and improvements in patient care. “They advocate to advance nursing practice and to improve the health of populations, communities, and individuals” (Crumley, 2020). Another strategy for improving my professional development is to continue learning by gaining new credentials or certifications. “Finding the means of ensuring that learning takes placed effectively and motivates staff to continue reflecting on practice and learning more has to be one of the main drivers for enhancing professionalism” (Hayes, 2016).

There is always room to learn something new. What we learn and become more proficient with will only help our patients by bettering their care and their quality of life. When we serve our community, we align with Walden University’s (2022) emphasis on social change by ensuring the development of individuals, communities, organizations, institutions, cultures, and societies by establishing and utilizing ideas, strategies, and actions.  

References

Burns, M. K. (2018). Creating a Nursing Portfolio. Ohio Nurses Review93(3), 16–17.

Crumley, C. (2020). The Benefits of Active Engagement in Nursing Professional Organizations: A View From Here. Journal of Wound, Ostomy, and
     Continence Nursing
. https://doi.org/10.1097/WON.0000000000000700

Links to an external site.

Hayes, C. (2016). Approaches to continuing professional development: putting theory into practice. British Journal of Nursing25(15), 860–864.
     https://doi.org/10.12968/bjon.2016.25.15.860

Links to an external site.

Walden University. (2022). Vision, mission, and goals. Walden University: Education for good. https://catalog.waldenu.edu/content.php?

Links to an external site.
     catoid=196&navoid=75618

NURS 6003 Discussion: Strategies for Academic Portfolios

By Day 7

Submit Part 5.

Remember to include an introduction paragraph which contains a clear and comprehensive purpose statement which delineates all required criteria, and end the assignment Part with a conclusion paragraph.

Submission and Grading Information

To submit your completed Assignment for review and grading, do the following:

Please save your Assignment using the naming convention “WK1Assgn+last name+first initial.(extension)” as the name.

Click the Week 5 Assignment Rubric to review the Grading Criteria for the Assignment.

Click the Week 5 Assignment link. You will also be able to “View Rubric” for grading criteria from this area.

Next, from the Attach File area, click on the Browse My Computer button. Find the document you saved as “WK5Assgn+last name+first initial.(extension)” and click Open.

If applicable: From the Plagiarism Tools area, click the checkbox for I agree to submit my paper(s) to the Global Reference Database.
Click on the Submit button to complete your submission.

Discussion: Strategies for Academic Portfolios

In the realm of marketing, a successful branding strategy is one of the most important contributors to organizational success. A solid branding strategy can help add visibility and credibility to a company’s products.

Similarly, nurse-scholars can build a personal brand to add visibility and credibility to their work. You can begin building your brand by developing and maintaining an academic portfolio. Such an activity can help share the results of your efforts and contribute to your success. This week’s Discussion asks you to consider and share strategies for building your portfolio.

To Prepare:

Reflect on strategies that you can pursue in developing portfolios or portfolio elements that focus on academic achievements.
Review one or more samples from your own research of resources focused on portfolio development.

By Day 3

Post an explanation of at least two strategies for including academic activities and accomplishments into your professional portfolio.

Support main post with 3 of more current, credible sources and cite source within content of posting and on a reference list in proper APA. 

  Professional Development Goals

       Professional development is an invaluable process that prepares nurses for current and future practice roles. Nurses must develop practical strategies to ensure professional development brings up current techniques, evidence, and technology to deliver quality care to patients (DeNisco, 2019). Therefore, I will enrol in educational activities, including programs and courses that promote continued learning and improve nursing knowledge and skills. These courses could potentially facilitate my professional development. Manning (2020) clarified that academic activities are critical in facilitating nurses’ achievement of professional development goals. These activities provide a platform where nurses can participate in skill-based research and training to enhance their knowledge, skills, and competence.  

     Further, I will attend nursing seminars and conferences organized by different nursing organizations. These seminars promote professional development by teaching skills and providing information that helps nurses progress. Additionally, I will precept a new generation of nurses about strong working ethics.

     These goals align with the university’s emphasis on social change. For instance, precepting enables nurses to apply evidence-based practices to assist new nurses in providing quality patient care. The university emphasizes that nurses must apply evidence-based interventions to treat patients. Therefore, precepting new nurses create a strong foundation where evidence-based practice is acknowledged. Moreover, providing helpful feedback, encouraging critical thinking, teaching hospital protocols, and setting learning objectives help improve the nurses’ professionalism and relationships with other professionals (Brooks & Welsh, 2021). A positive relationship between new and experienced nurses is critical for interprofessional collaboration, which constitutes an essential component of social change. 

By Day 6

Respond to at least two of your colleagues on two different days, by offering additional ideas regarding academic achievements to include or offering alternative ways of presenting the current achievements.

Be sure to offer support from at least 2 current, credible sources in each required response to classmates’ main post and cite per APA.
Submission and Grading Information
Grading Criteria

Strategies for Academic Portfolios

As nurses, we all started from the humble beginnings of being a student and earning our degree through tedious education and training. After satisfying the requirements for nursing licensure, we now embark on a professional journey that allows us to put into action everything that we have learned and apply the experiences that we developed and enhanced in school. It is very critical to be able to create a summary that will speak of our achievements, credentials, and qualifications. Burns (2018) defined a professional portfolio as an evidence of growth and development depicting a summary of a nurse’s education and achievements. This growth and development aspect can be further supplemented by a best work portfolio containing specific documents like awards and recognition. The life of a professional nurse starts with a job hunt, and it is critical to be able to create a document that will be powerful enough to convince employers in order to be able to land in a job that is truly desired. 

Building a Portfolio.

Hannans and Olivo (2017) described an ePortfolio as a digital fingerprint that reveals a person personally and professionally. It is then very important to make sure that the portfolio we prepare speaks for who we really are and one that will impress employers. In order to be able to effectively build a portfolio, the same authors recommended the search for existing platforms or templates that can be used to create an initial framework. This framework can then be used to organize our personal information that we have to build the content of the portfolio. Incorporating academic achievements is beneficial in supporting qualities of excellence. Casey and Egan (2013) emphasized that in writing the structure and presentation of a portfolio, nurses need to be creative in presenting personal information. This can be achieved by aligning and integrating whatever an organization is looking for in a candidate. According to the same author, this demonstrates self-awareness of an applicant about the job being applied for and the organization’s mission and goals. This is one effective strategy to make sure that portfolios are not generic but can be individualized for different applications. Burns (2018) identified different elements of a nursing portfolio and emphasized that the information provided on each element is one that can be verified. Employers perform a background check and it will be helpful to provide information that will make it easier for them to verify information provided.

Portfolio Development.

Leahy and Filiatrault (2017) discussed an article about employers’ perceptions to electronic portfolios and concluded that recruiters had moderately favorable perceptions to ePortfolios. It was emphasized in the same article that employers have a higher probability of connecting with an applicant if in the correspondence a link relevant to the part of the ePortfolio is provided. Job applications have shifted to mostly digital format and it is essential to consider the finding of this article to be able to gain more success in connecting with employers by being able to provide a way for them to search ePortfolios easier.

Discussion: Strategies for Academic Portfolios Conclusion.

The journey towards professional enrichment is determined by how a nurse makes good connections to desired employments. It is very crucial to be able to make a blueprint of our success by building an effective portfolio that will appropriately represent us based on our own professional growth and achievements (Laureate Education, 2018). It takes years to build our credibility as professionals, a long process to gain our knowledge, and countless efforts to enhance our skills. It is then very important to put everything into one document that will speak for us, our professional portfolio.

Related Posts:

NURS 6003 Discussion: Networking Opportunities

NURS 6003 Assignment: Academic Success and Professional Development Plan Part 1: Developing an Academic and Professional Network

NURS 6003 Assignment: Academic Success and Professional Development Plan Part 2: Strategies to Promote Academic Integrity and Professional Ethics

Discussion: Strategies for Academic Portfolios References

Burns, M. K. (2018). Creating a nursing portfolio. Ohio Nurses Review, 93(3), 16–17.

Casey, D. & Egan, D. (2013). The use of professional portfolios for career enhancement. British Journal of Nursing, 15(11), 547–552. doi:10.12968/bjcn.2010.15.11.79625

Hannans, J. & Olivo, Y. (2017). Craft a positive nursing digital identity with an ePortfolio. American Nurse Today, 12(11), 48–49. Retrieved November 14, 2018, from https://www.americannursetoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/ant11-Digital-Identity-1017a-1.pdf

Laureate Education (Producer). (2018). The Blueprint to Success [Video file]. Baltimore, MD: Author.

Leahy, R., & Filiatrault, A. (2017). Employers’ perceptions of the benefits of employment electronic portfolios. International Journal of ePortfolio, 7(2), 217–223.

RE: professional growth

Hello Dr. F…,

I have been a nurse for almost three decades now and I can say that my career journey has been extensive. Ever since I completed my bachelor’s program in Nursing, I have always developed the desire to continue to nurture my knowledge and skills by keeping myself up to date with best practices affecting my work.

Professional growth can be equated to self-promotion by taking the professional responsibility to seek advancement in any chosen field of work (Burns, 2018). This self-promotion is a way to be aware of our individual achievements, and this will help provide an internal motivation to be able to enhance our career. As our resources emphasized, it is always up to each individual how success is defined (Laureate Education, 20918). As we move forward in our career, it is essential to always keep in mind to do an inventory of our knowledge and skill set and be responsible enough to enrich these aspects as needed.

Our online identity serves as our digital fingerprint as a professional (Hannans & Olivo, 2017). In my personal experience, my focus has always been on enriching my career, and in the process, I always made sure that I catch all the details of my accomplishments by documenting it in my portfolio.

Discussion: Strategies for Academic Portfolios References

Burns, M. K. (2018). Creating a nursing portfolio. Ohio Nurses Review, 93(3), 16–17.

Hannans, J. & Olivo, Y. (2017). Craft a positive nursing digital identity with an ePortfolio. American Nurse Today, 12(11), 48–49. Retrieved November 14, 2018, from https://www.americannursetoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/ant11-Digital-Identity-1017a-1.pdf

Laureate Education (Producer). (2018). The Blueprint to Success [Video file]. Baltimore, MD: Author.

Strategies for Nursing Portfolios

Nursing portfolios are a way to show achievements throughout one’s nursing journey.  “A professional portfolio is evidence of the nurse’s skills, achievements, and professional experience” (Burns, M.K., 2018).  There are many ways to demonstrate a nurse’s personal growth in a nursing portfolio.  An ePortfolio is a way to keep track of academic activities and accomplishments throughout one’s career on a virtual platform. “ePortfolios are a well-established practice to demonstrate progress, archive coursework through college, and provide evidence of meeting learning outcomes” (Hannahs, J. & Olivo, Y., 2017).  There are many ways to outline and demonstrate the achievements one has made in an ePortfolio.  Two strategies to provide this information is by, “Outline your short- and long-term goals and share your clinical experiences” (Hannahs, J. & Olivo, Y., 2017).

Social Change

“At Walden University, we define positive social change as a deliberate process of creating and applying ideas, strategies, and actions to promote the worth” (Walden University, n.d.).  By receiving my education from Walden University, I know that I will have the training to ensure my portfolio inhibits social change.  My long and short-term goals can outline how I will achieve a positive social change. Clinical experience will increase my professional growth through my academic successes.  An example of this would be, working as a nurse executive I will be faced with many decisions.  In order to provide a positive social change, my clinical experiences will help me work cohesively with a preceptor to learn how to promote a positive atmosphere.

Discussion: Strategies for Academic Portfolios Conclusion

By understanding how to implement a thorough nursing portfolio, I will be able to demonstrate achievements in academia and professional growth.  As a Nurse Executive student at Walden University, I know that I am learning the essential skills to evolve my nursing portfolio.  Through this development, I will be able to strive for positive social change.

Discussion: Strategies for Academic Portfolios References:

Burns, M. K. (2018). Creating a Nursing Portfolio. Ohio Nurses Review, 93(3), 16–17.

Hannans, J. & Olivo, Y. (2017). Craft a positive nursing digital identity with an ePortfolio.  American Nurse Today, 12(11), 48-49.  Retrieved October 19, 2020, from https://www.myamericannurse.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/ant11-Digital-Identity-1017a-1.pdf

Walden University. (n.d.). Social change. Walden University – Acalog ACMS™. https://catalog.waldenu.edu/content.php?catoid=122&navoid=34904

K…,

I appreciate your post on ePortfolios and how they can be useful as we build our academic and nursing professional portfolios. In today’s world, more and more information is obtained online. Employers are now researching potential job candidates prior to the interviewing and hiring process begins. It is important now, more than ever, to create a positive online brand for yourself that employers, coworkers, friends, family, and even patients may discover. Digital footprints are left every time we log on, attention must be paid to what material you are posting (Hannans & Olivo, 2017).

Academic and professional portfolios are visual representations of your strengths, academic success, nursing skills and knowledge, community involvement, and experiences. The resume and/or curriculum vitae are only a piece of the portfolio. Nurses should include degrees obtained, licensures, certifications, continuing education credits, conference attendance, and any presentations or education lectures they presented (Burns, 2018).

Walden University is preparing students to be social change agents (Walden University, n.d.). Showcasing achievements for community involvement should be included as a part of your portfolio. Volunteer services, organizing or participating in  health screenings, and lobbying for health policy changes are all opportunities to add to your professional portfolio (Burns, 2018).

Discussion: Strategies for Academic Portfolios References

Burns, M. (2018). creating a nursing portfolio. Ohio Nurses Review, 93 (3),16-17

Hannans, J. & Olivo, Y. (2017). Craft a positive nursing digital identity with an ePortfolio.  American Nurse Today12(11), 48-49.  Retrieved October 22, 2020, from https://www.myamericannurse.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/ant11-Digital-Identity-1017a-1.pdf

Walden University. (n.d.) Social Change. Retrieved on October 22, 2020, from https://www.waldenu.edu/why-walden/social-change

Also Read:

NURS 6003 Discussion: Using the Walden Library

NURS 6003 Assignment: Academic Success and Professional Development Plan Part 3: Research Analysis

NURS 6003 Discussion: Examining Nursing Specialties

Walden University MSN Core Nursing courses – Generic information for success:

  1. Being graduate level adult learners – It is very unlikely that you will experience the quantity of or detailed guidance as in the announcements received in this course. Being so: Read the course announcements thoroughly and completely. Read the course announcements at least daily for any updates. Going forward the Instructors may post items at any time throughout the day or night. I have unfortunately received emails throughout this course with questions for which the information was previously addressed within the announcements. Again, reading the course announcements is imperative for your success.
  2. The utilization requirement of APA within assignments will increase as you progress to courses that are considered “writing intense”. The APA requirement within discussions will remain as you experienced within this course. This course is not considered writing intense. Familiarize yourself with the correct usage of APA 7th edition. It is within every graded item, within every Nursing course going forward. Familiarize yourself and utilize the Walden resources for APA assistance. I have diligently posted links to those resources several times during this course.
  3. Use ONLY your Walden student email for communication with any Walden University representative. When communicating with your Instructor ALWAYS include your course number and section. Within this course I posted in the announcements numerous times your specific course number and section, as well asked that you include that information when emailing me. Sadly, I received emails that did not include this information, this delayed my assisting you as I had to request your course number and section. This alerts me that course announcements were not being thoroughly and completely reviewed. Going forward it is highly unlikely Instructors will respond to any email other than your Walden student email as email not in Walden origin routinely gets flagged as spam then deleted. Also be fully aware that Instructors required to respond to any email other than your designated Walden Student email.
  4. Be mindful if you do not participate in any Walden course during the 1st week (Day 1 through Day 7) – you will be removed from the course by Walden University regardless of your excuse. Your Instructor has no control over this – it is university policy!
  5. The grading of any assignment cannot proceed by your Instructor unless you submit your assignments via SafeAssign, then in BlackBoard. Traditionally a -0- score will be awarded, with no resubmission availability. At the Graduate level, you are responsible for your work being submitted per instructions AND grading rubric parameters and due date/time. Again, I strongly encourage you to submit your assignments before Day 7 to ensure yourself sufficient time to seek assistance and correct the issue. Remember SafeAssign Drafts and SafeAssign are different!
  6. For Discussions – There is a six (6) day period (Monday, Day 1 through Saturday, Day 6) allowed for the Discussion participation. No allowances for participation will be made outside of the six (6) Discussion active period. Any submitted post outside of the 6-day active discussion period will not be graded and you will receive a -0- score.
  7. Faculty cannot accept or grade any assignment or discussion through email.
  8. Do not wait until Day 7 to begin or submit your assignment. Assignments are due Day 7. At the Graduate level, you are responsible for your work being submitted per instructions, grading rubric parameters and due date and time. Being so = I strongly encourage you to submit your assignments well before Day 7 to ensure yourself sufficient time to seek assistance and correct any issue encountered. I have purposely made myself available to you each day including weekends and responded to you within 12 to 24 hours. Be mindful, Instructors are not required to respond to you on a daily basis. Going forward your Instructors will respond to your Contact the Instructor communications and emails within the required 48 hours’ time period.
  9. As a graduate level student, Instructors will not reach out to you to ensure your assignments/discussions are completed and submitted correctly. As a graduate level adult learner, it is your responsibility to ensure that your discussions and assignments are completed and submitted timely and correctly. As an adult learner, you need to take the initiative and reach out to your Instructor immediately when you encounter an issue. You were offered an online orientation by Walden University – Did you participate in that orientation? If not, I strongly suggest you contact your advisor and make arrangements.
  10. If you experience technical issues, please utilize your resources and contact the Walden Customer Care Team or Walden IT for assistance. Going forward you will encounter several PowerPoint presentations, Walden Templates within your future courses at Walden University, as well be required to submit multiple items with a single submission.
  11. Understand the Time Zones at Walden University and the applicable conversion. Your course calendar is in Eastern Time as is the time/date stamp of submission/participation for your discussions and assignments. Going forward all of your future Nursing courses require that your Discussions, any Quiz or Assignment will continue to be due submitted in Mountain Time.
  12. Have a computer and Internet backup plan. What will you do if your computer crashes or your Internet is not working?  Computer/Internet/work issues are your responsibility. Allowances will not be made due to these issues causing a lack of participation or missed deadline, rather a -0- score will be awarded. Save your work on a flash or hard drive. Know where you can go to access the Academic Skills Center as it is an excellent resource to assist in your success.
  13. For Assignments – Only prior communication with AND Instructor approval will late assignments be considered for grading. Assignments submitted late will be deducted 4% daily until Day 5 OR may deduct the entire 20% regardless of time/day of late submission. This is at the discretion of each Instructor and will vary course-by-course. After Day 5, in any course, the assignment will be scored a -0-.
  14. Be familiar with how to access and utilize the Walden resources. I posted the most useful and frequently utilized resources numerous times within the course announcements.
  15. Ensure your discussions have a substance, depth and breadth, critical analysis, and reflection element within the grading rubric. In short – if your discussion Main Post does not closely compare to the discussion exemplar located within the course resources and announcements posted within this course your grade will be drastically reduced.
  16. Know who and where to submit any documentation if necessary, for allowances for any late or missed assignments. Remember Instructors are not permitted to accept any medical documentation.
  17. Know who your advisor is and how to contact them.
  18. Know where and how to locate your student feedback. This course is 6 weeks in duration – In Week 5 I received emails inquiring as to “I see my grade but don’t know why points were deducted” – It was sadly apparent the feedback being provided was not being reviewed by those students. Your numeric score and student feedback are in different locations – this was addressed in the course announcements. If you cannot locate or have not located your student feedback for discussions and assignments – I strongly encourage you to contact the Customer Care Team as you have missed a tremendous amount of information.

Student Resources: Here is a partial listing of Walden University resources that have been shared with you during this course. You will frequent these as you progress throughout your future courses. Again, I strongly recommend that you bookmark each of these for your future courses.

RE: Discussion – Week 8

COLLAPSE

Top of Form

As a student it is important to know of strategies for incorporating academic activities into professional goals.  When it comes time to search for a job, potential employers may request, research, and inquire about a candidate’s scholarly activities.  Academic activities make a student stand out from the crowd and demonstrate that the candidate values their programs mission and goals.  An eportfolio is a great way for students to track, organize, and broadcast their academic and professional experiences and skills.  Hannans and Olivo (2017) discusses eportfolios for nurses as being the full picture of who you are professionally in your field of work.  Hannans and Olivo (2017) also discuss how eportolios may become a requirement in the future to prospective job candidates, so they state, “why not be ahead of the game” (p.2).

One strategy I aim to use to build some academic activities into my professional development is to join the nurses honor society as Walden University.  Sigma Theta Tau is an international nurse’s honor society and nursing students at Walden University are automatically invited to join the organization at different times throughout the year.  The nursing honor society at Walden University has a mission to “support the learning, knowledge, and professional development of nurses committed to making a difference in health worldwide” (Walden University, n.d, para. 1).  The honor society aims at educating and empowering a generation of nurses who will lead using their knowledge and services to create a work of improved health for the people (Walden University, n.d).  This mission and vision that the society portrays relates well to my professional goal of being able to provide care as a nurse practitioner in my rural area of living, closing some of the care gaps the people face.

Another strategy I have for incorporating an academic activity into my professional development is to join the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) organization.  The mission of the AANP is to empower all nurse practitioners to “advance accessible, person-centered, equitable, high-quality care for diverse communities through practice, education, advocacy, research, and leadership” (AANP, n.d, para.1).  According to Crumley (2020) nurses have many benefits from joining organizations related to their field, interest, and specialties.  Professional organizations can provide nurses and advanced practice providers networking and educational opportunities (Crumley, 2020).  Professional organizations also advocate for nurses to be able to provide the best services to patients and their communities (Crumley, 2020).  Joining one of these organizations helps me to stay up to date on education opportunities and to be involved in a community of individuals whose goal is to support patients and their communities.

Walden University emphasizes social change for all their degree programs.  The social change specific to the field of nursing is to create practitioners who are community based and active in trying to create a positive change for humans and social conditions (Walden University, n.d).  My goal of becoming a nurse practitioner aligns with Walden’s belief of partnering with communities to create social change.  I plan to work as a family nurse practitioner in my rural area community.  Many people in my community have a hard time finding or getting access to family medicine providers.  I will serve my community by offering care to the underprivileged.  Another goal of mine is to be a continuous learner.  By being affiliated with honor and organizational societies, I will be able to stay engaged in new learning and education opportunities for my field. This will align with Walden’s social change practices by allowing me to provider the most up to date and patient centered care available to my community.

Discussion: Strategies for Academic Portfolios References

AANP. (n.d).  Strategic Focus. Retrieved from https://www.aanp.org/

Crumley, C. (2020). The Benefits of Active Engagement in Nursing Professional Organizations: A View From Here. Journal of Wound, Ostomy &                     Continence Nursing47(6), 547. https://doi.org/10.1097/WON.0000000000000700

Hannans, J. & Olivo, Y. (2017). Craft a positive nursing digital identity with an ePortfolio. American Nurse Today, 12(11), 48-49. Retrieved October 13, 2022,                   from https://www.americannursetoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/ant11-Digital-Identity-1017a-1.pdf

Walden University. (n.d). Sigma Theta Tau: Home. Retrieved from https://academicguides.waldenu.edu/student-organizations/sigma-theta-tau

Walden University. (n.d). Social Change. Retrieved from https://www.waldenu.edu/why-walden/social-change

RE: Discussion – Week 8

 

         In this discussion board, two strategies will be identified to aid in professional development and social change. The Advance Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) must possess strategies to promote a domino effect for professional development and positive social change.

The first strategy the APRN should utilize is to maintain a professional portfolio outlining the training and experience one has gained in the nursing profession (Casey & Egan, 2013). The nursing professional should stay current in documenting new awards and education in the professional portfolio. A second strategy that should be utilized in the APRN setting is the use of online networking. Hannans and Olivo (2017) note the importance of online identity and professional networking. For instance, LinkedIn provides a platform for professionals to develop profiles and connect with others in an online professional setting. E-portfolios is an outlet for professionals to showcase their professional standards and career skills while providing an area of reflection for future goal making (McMillan et al., 2014). These strategies facilitate Walden University’s emphasis on social change because it highlights the importance lifelong learning in a modern atmosphere.

In conclusion, the APRN has the opportunity to enhance the care of individuals, families, and communities in various ways. The valuable experience the APRN obtains through professional development also promotes well rounded care delivery.

Discussion: Strategies for Academic Portfolios References:

Casey, D. & Egan, D. (2013). The use of professional portfolios for

career enhancement. British Journal of Nursing. 15(11),

547-552.

Hannans, J. & Olivo, Y. (2017). Craft a positive nursing digital

identity with an ePortfolio. American Nurse Today. 12(11),

48-49. americannurse-today.com/wp-content/up-loads/2017/11/ant11-Digital-    identity-1017a-1pdf

McMillan, L.R., Parker., & Sport, A. (2014). Decisions, decisions!

E-portfoliio as an effective hiring assessment tool. Nursing

Management. 45 (4) 52-54.

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NURS 6003 Assignment: Academic Success and Professional Development Plan Part 4: Finalizing the Plan

One strategy to pursue in developing a portfolio would be to focus on academic achievements. This could include documenting my clinical rotations, presenting case studies and poster presentations, or publishing research papers. Another strategy could be to highlight leadership & management experience by showcasing managerial roles within various organizations or detailing committee work/leadership positions I have held. Additionally, emphasizing community involvement can demonstrate a dedication to helping others which can be an important attribute for future clinicians. Finally, highlighting professional development & continuing education shows a commitment to lifelong learning and growth which is essential for any clinician.

Developing a portfolio that showcases ones academic achievements and demonstrates their alignment with the University’s emphasis on social change may be strategic in pursuing admission to various learning institutions (Doeze et al., 2019). One of the elements in the portfolio/ goals focuses on community-based projects which emphasizes on the university’s goals or plans on social change. As an example, one of my recent community-based projects was developing a training curriculum for volunteers working with refugees. This experience was important to me because it demonstrated my ability to think critically about complex social issues and develop strategies for addressing them. The experience is also in line with the university’s emphasis on social change.

A university’s emphasis on social change can be a powerful impetus for portfolio elements that align with its mission. For example, a university may focus on experiential learning and civic engagement as key components of their undergraduate experience (Doeze et al., 2019). This focus is evident in the many opportunities students have to work with local organizations and businesses and to take part in meaningful community service projects. Graduates should thus be well-prepared to make a difference in the world. They should understand the importance of working collaboratively toward common goals.

Discussion: Strategies for Academic Portfolios References

Doeze Jager‐van Vliet, S. B., Born, M. P., & van der Molen, H. T. (2019). Using a portfolio‐based process to develop agility among employees. Human Resource Development Quarterly30(1), 39-60. https://doi.org/10.1002/hrdq.21337

One strategy to pursue in developing a portfolio would be to focus on academic achievements. This could include documenting my clinical rotations, presenting case studies and poster presentations, or publishing research papers. Another strategy could be to highlight leadership & management experience by showcasing managerial roles within various organizations or detailing committee work/leadership positions I have held. Additionally, emphasizing community involvement can demonstrate a dedication to helping others which can be an important attribute for future clinicians. Finally, highlighting professional development & continuing education shows a commitment to lifelong learning and growth which is essential for any clinician.

Developing a portfolio that showcases ones academic achievements and demonstrates their alignment with the University’s emphasis on social change may be strategic in pursuing admission to various learning institutions (Doeze et al., 2019). One of the elements in the portfolio/ goals focuses on community-based projects which emphasizes on the university’s goals or plans on social change. As an example, one of my recent community-based projects was developing a training curriculum for volunteers working with refugees. This experience was important to me because it demonstrated my ability to think critically about complex social issues and develop strategies for addressing them. The experience is also in line with the university’s emphasis on social change.  

A university’s emphasis on social change can be a powerful impetus for portfolio elements that align with its mission. For example, a university may focus on experiential learning and civic engagement as key components of their undergraduate experience (Doeze et al., 2019). This focus is evident in the many opportunities students have to work with local organizations and businesses and to take part in meaningful community service projects. Graduates should thus be well-prepared to make a difference in the world. They should understand the importance of working collaboratively toward common goals.

Discussion: Strategies for Academic Portfolios References

Doeze Jager‐van Vliet, S. B., Born, M. P., & van der Molen, H. T. (2019). Using a portfolio‐based process to develop agility among employees. Human Resource Development Quarterly30(1), 39-60. https://doi.org/10.1002/hrdq.21337

The field of nursing requires adaptation to a constantly changing group of patient issues. As we advance our careers academically, nurses are increasingly asked to consider their role beyond the simple clinical issues they face in the workplace. Aside from work-related discipline, nurses are often left with few ways of measurably distinguishing themselves from their counterparts aside from work experience. Many of us has heard “no one cares about your Grade Point Average (G.P.A.) once you start working” in their time. While the accuracy of that statement is debatable, it is revelatory in that it highlights the diverse array of qualities expected from a nurse beyond their academic competency and work experience.

In researching this assignment’s topics, I came across an article that discussed an idea very similar to the nurse-familiar concept of evidence-based practice. The term discussed, social entrepreneurship, is defined as using pragmatic and results-oriented methods to bring about social change in the business world (Altman & Brinker, 2016). Comparatively, nurses seeking to further their careers must focus on ways of highlighting similar attributes to express their value effectively to prospective employers. With the goal of better nurses and better patient outcomes in the forefront, it is imperative that nurses take this part of their roles just as seriously as they do any other.

A modern approach to this challenge is to develop and maintain a professional portfolio. Asking me to maintain any sort of portfolio has been somewhat of a challenge. Compounding that fact, I wasn’t the best student early in nursing school and struggled a lot with non-school related issues that made it hard for me. I found the cake mix structure explained in the article The use of professional portfolios and profiles for career enhancement to be an ideal approach for me to take in developing my portfolio (Casey & Egan, 2013). This concept utilizes a reflective narrative to tie evidence together which enables a greater focus on the personal learning journeys, reflection, and the development of personal qualities (Casey & Egan, 2013). This approach will allow me to highlight the volunteer work I have done that relates to my focus on social change. A focus that I am very glad aligns with Walden’s aim provide me with the tools I need to address the immediate solutions of critical societal challenges (Walden University, 2022).

            The quality I would most like to get across in my portfolio would be adaptability. I would like to feature my continual self-reflection on clinical and academic experiences in the forefront (Mcmillan et. al, 2014). To highlight my own skills, I find that an e-portfolio would be my best bet as it provides a structure for planning the way my career progresses (Mcmillan et al, 2014). With the little psych experience I currently have, developing and maintaining an e-portfolio and utilizing the aforementioned “cake mix structure approach” as an asset of self-reflection will give me more control over the way my value as a nurse is expressed.

                A professional development portfolio is a way for nurse and other professionals to present their growth, accomplishments and goals in a clear and organized manner (Burns, 2018). There are multiple strategies that I could use to develop my professional development portfolio. One strategy I would utilize is to develop a plan, that would help me to reach my career goals once I complete graduate school (Casey, D. & Egan, D., 2013). In my professional portfolio I would include all positions I have held in clinical and leadership capacities. Doing so will show my growth professionally. I will also include my goals that I have set for myself in the near future and long term (Hannans & Olivo, 2017). Including these details in my portfolio will present to potential employers, my drive to continue to develop myself professionally.

                Another strategy that I will use to develop my professional development portfolio is to ensure the  information included in my portfolio reaches specific standards, so that  I have a quality portfolio (Casey, D.& Egan, D., 2013). I will do this by including enough, data in my portfolio for potential employers to make a justified decision pertaining to my skills and competence level. I will also include dates in my portfolio, so employers know all experience and skills included in my portfolio is current.  By assuring the quality of my portfolio I can be sure the information included shows a realistic portrayal of me professionally (Casey, D.& Egan, D., 2013).

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