Insights on leadership from early career nurse academics: findings from a mixed methods study. (24th June 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Halcomb, Elizabeth; Jackson, Debra; Daly, John; Gray, Joanne; Salamonson, Yenna; Andrew, Sharon; Peters, Kath
• Is Part Of: Journal of nursing management. Volume 24:Number 2(2016)
• Page Start: E155
• Page End: E163
• Publication Date: 2015-06-24
• Subjects: early career academic -- leadership -- mixed methods -- nurse academic; Nursing services -- Administration -- Periodicals; Nursing services -- Business management -- Periodicals; 610.73068
• DOI: 10.1111/jonm.12317
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0966-0429

Abstract

Abstract : Aim: To explore the perceptions of early career nursing academics on leadership in academia. Background: There is growing emphasis on leadership capacity building across all domains of nursing. However, there is limited evidence on leadership capacity in early career academics. This study tested an intervention to develop leadership capacity amongst early career nursing academics in two Australian universities. Methods: A sequential mixed methods design, using online surveys and semi‐structured interviews, was used to collect data. Results: Twenty‐three early career nursing academics participated. Most had experience of formal leadership roles and were aware of its importance to them as they developed their academic careers. Participants were able to discuss their own views of themselves as leaders; their perceptions of their own needs for leadership development, and ways in which they could seek to develop further as leaders. Conclusion: There is a need to provide initial and ongoing opportunities for leadership development amongst nurse academics. These opportunities should be contextualised and recognise factors such as gender, and the effects of structural oppression. Implications for nursing management: Nurse academics are involved in the preparation of the next generation of clinical leaders and it is imperative that they are able to articulate a clear view of leadership.