Benner’s From Novice to Expert Theory in Nursing

Benner’s Theory, Its Origins and the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Applied Project

It is no secret that the research process and the creation of new knowledge are based on two concepts, which are theory and practice. Middle-range theories are one of the means of theoretical approaches and techniques. According to Liehr and Smith (2017), this category of assumptions is “below the more philosophical or grand theories and above … hypotheses” (p. 51). Benner’s From Novice to Expert theory is an excellent example of a well-developed middle-range theoretical concept in nursing. Mgbekem et al. (2016) note that Benner’s theory illustrates “five key stages of skill acquisition: Novice, advance beginner, competent, proficient, and the expert” (p. 250). Medical professionals have found that the most useful application of this theory in the educational area of nursing.

Benner’s From Novice to Expert Theory and DNP Applied Project

It is safe to say that Benner’s theory would have had a significant positive impact on the DNP applied project. Benner’s model could be used to assess the clinical competence of observed preceptors, as clinical competence is the focus of this theoretical concept (Mgbekem et al., 2016). Another aspect of future research where one could apply this middle-range theory is developing a proper educational intervention.

Benner’s From Novice to Expert Theory and Dreyfus Model of Skill Acquisition

As mentioned above, Benner’s theory is a middle-range one. Therefore, it was developed on the basis of a broader grand theory. From Novice to Expert has its roots in the Dreyfus model of skill acquisition. It is a model that describes the stages of acquiring and developing new skills (Benner, 2019). Interestingly, the creators of this sociological grand theory were consultants to Benner in creating her theory.

References

Benner, P. (2019). Skill acquisition and clinical judgement in nursing practice: Towards expertise and practical wisdom. In J. Higgs (Ed.), Practice wisdom: Values and interpretations (pp. 225-240). Brill.

Liehr, P., & Smith, M. J. (2017). Middle range theory: A perspective on development and use. Advances in Nursing Science, 40(1), 51-63.

Mgbekem, M. A., Ojong, I. N., Lukpata, F. E., Armon, M., & Kalu, V. (2016). Middle range theory evaluation: Bridging the theory-practice gap. Global Journal of Pure and Applied Sciences, 22(2), 249-254.