The role of awards in promoting educational leadership in nursing: A qualitative descriptive study in gerontological nursing

BACKGROUND: As the population ages, the need for high quality nursing education in the unique health and illness needs of older people is required at undergraduate and postgraduate levels. Gerontological nursing and gerontological nursing education are critically important in this new age of human longevity and chronic disease. To facilitate high quality and engaging educational practices in gerontology, the National Hartford Center for Gerontological Nursing Excellence offered a professional recognition award program, entitled the Distinguished Educator in Gerontological Nursing Award (the Award). OBJECTIVES: Describe participants’ perceptions of an awards program in gerontological nursing education. DESIGN: Qualitative descriptive research. SETTINGS: National Hartford Center for Gerontological Nursing Excellence, a professional body that aims to enhance and sustain the capacity and competency of nurses to provide quality care to older adults, opened the Award to international applications in 2018. PARTICIPANTS: Nine awardees, residing in North America and Asia. METHODS: Semi-structured individual interviews followed by inductive, thematic analysis. RESULTS: The Award was valued for its prestige and recognition; the process of applying was affirming; and achievement of the Award strengthened awardee confidence to lead and advocate for gerontological nursing education. A model for understanding the Award, focused on value, application and confidence is proposed. CONCLUSIONS: The use of award programs for gerontological education expertise may improve nurse educators’ confidence and performance within educational settings. How the Award impacts student learning remains unknown. Further research into the benefits and limitations of award programs for nurse educators specializing in gerontological nursing and other fields, their managers, and students is required to fully understand the role of educational award programs in nursing.