The important conversation: how to discuss concerns with the

The important conversation: how to discuss concerns with the student

Key factors to consider when discussing your concerns with a student:

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Use non judgemental language.

Be factual.

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Provide specific examples related to your concerns.

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Identify what strengths the student can use to improve the areas of concern.

Being transparent and empathic in your approach during discussions around underperforming is essential. It is important that you prepare for the discussion and consider the language you use when conveying any concerns to the learner; avoiding the use of words/phrases that have negative connotations can encourage a learner to stay motivated, whilst enabling the educator to remain supportive during this important conversation.

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The article by Stevens (2013) Conducting interviews with failing students. Nursing Times. 109, 8 , 22-24 is a brief but useful resource to refer to.

Literature also reinforces that it is essential to invite the student to share their own perspective (Duffy & Hardicre 2007, Stevens 2013, Wells & McGloughlin 2014).

As an educator you have a responsibility to:

Inform the student that they are not meeting aspects of required placement criteria in a supportive and timely. manner providing evidence informed examples and feedback.
Seek the student’s perspective—be openminded, remember unconscious bias.
Jointly discuss, negotiate and draft a plan of action with the student to address specific areas for improvement.
Provide the student with adequate time to address the areas for improvement.
Provide opportunities for the student to learn and improve their area of practice.
Maintain communication with the student's education institution—share the action plan and agree detailed timelines for updates.

Ensure any information you share is done so in a manner that adheres to confidentiality guidelines. A face-to-face discussion, either in person or online, with documented examples is an effective method for communicating concerns to learners.

Having discussed the areas of concern, devising an Action Plan with the student is the next step.

The important conversation: how to discuss concerns with the student