Authors

  1. Phillips, Carswella DNP, AGPCNP-BC, CNE

Article Content

Experiential learning activities allow nurse practitioner (NP) students the opportunity to apply content to real-life experiences in the policy arena. The author designed this educational strategy to enhance NP students' political competence through involvement in policymaking at a health policy conference. Initially, students completed a health policy course activity designed to reinforce the basics of the policymaking process. Students then chose a health policy issue from a select list of topics located in the course learning management system. Next, students searched the literature for current facts, statistics, and research related to the health policy issue. Before the conference, each student developed 6 evidence-based talking points to support their policy issue. Students were encouraged to use their talking points to guide the discussion with policymakers. Students then attended a 2-day health policy conference that coincided with the state legislative session. Each student participated in a 10-minute meeting with a policymaker who had a vested interest in their health policy issue during the conference. Students were encouraged to establish a positive rapport, deliver expert knowledge, and use the talking points to garner support for their health policy issue. An evaluation of the strategy revealed that more than 95% of students felt the health policy conference allowed them to synthesize knowledge and apply skills needed to demonstrate political competence in the NP role.