The significance of communities of practice: Norwegian nursing students' experience of clinical placement in Bangladesh

AIM: The purpose of this study was to gain understanding of Norwegian students' experience of learning in clinical placement in Bangladesh without formal one‐to‐one supervision, by a personal mentor in the ward. DESIGN: Using focus group interviews with bachelor nursing students we explored the significance of ‘communities of practice’ in nursing practicum abroad, socialization and knowledge transfer. METHOD: Seven third year bachelor nursing students enrolled in a clinical placement programme in Bangladesh participated in focus group interviews prior to their departure to Bangladesh, during their stay in Bangladesh and after their return to Norway. RESULTS: The Students’ marginality and ‘peripheral participation’ triggered insight and reflection. The challenging but advantageous position of the peripheral students was heightened further due to the lack of one‐to‐one supervision in the clinic. Their previous experience with problem based learning and group learning was an asset that made them more resilient and helped them to cope.