Coherent Learning: Creating High-level Performance and Cultural Empathy From Student to Expert

BACKGROUND: Schools of nursing are charged with graduating nursing students who reflect the race and ethnicity of the communities they will serve. A college of nursing in Oklahoma received a grant to do just that for the Native American community in Oklahoma. In 1998, 19 Native American students were admitted to the school; only 12 graduated 2 years later. The rate of attrition for Native American nursing students averaged 57% between 1997 and 2001. The overall attrition rate was approximately 9%. METHODS: HeartMath trainers were identified and prepared in 2002 and implemented the program in the nursing college in 2003. The program was voluntary for the first year, then became part of new student orientation the next year. Trainings were offered monthly for students and faculty and were available to every student. Laboratory computers were equipped with the Freeze Frame program, and students could practice during school hours. Several faculty also did one-to-one training and practice with students in their offices at student request. Many faculty members did a short HearthMath session that any student could participate in before each test. RESULTS: Although only Native American students are reported here, students from all ethnicities and races reported benefits. Following implementation of HeartMath in 2003, the average attrition rate for Native American nursing students between 2003 and 2008 was 37%. During this time, requirements for admission and graduation became more stringent and required increased testing. By 2006, the overall attrition rate for the school was 3% or less. The students reported increased confidence in their test-taking abilities and fewer physical health issues with regular practice of the HeartMath process. Based on test results for all students, it was determined that practicing HeartMath increased test scores by an average of 17 points, thus highly motivating students to practice. CONCLUSION: Native American nursing students using the HeartMath stress-reducing processes demonstrated improved test-taking and perceived physical health and higher graduation rates than those who did not use HeartMath. Use of HeartMath while in school decreased the overall attrition rate by approximately 40% for Native American students over the reported timeframe.