Changes in political astuteness following an active learning experience in health policy for undergraduate nursing students

There is growing recognition that policies are important determinants of individual and community health. Advocating for public policies that improve the health of populations and communities is a crucial nursing intervention. Likewise, preparing nursing students to influence policy is a critical component of nursing education. A series of learning activities was implemented to engage undergraduate nursing students in experiences designed to develop knowledge, skills, and attitudes required for political advocacy. However, the effect of these learning activities on political awareness and skills is not known. The purpose of this research is to describe changes in political astuteness after students have participated in the public policy learning activities. Approximately 400 students completed the Political Astuteness Inventory (PAI) prior to and after participating in the public policy learning activities. The PAI is a 40-item tool that takes about ten minutes to complete. Sample items include, “I am registered to vote” and “I know the name of the state representative(s) from my district.” Based on the total score, four levels of political astuteness are categorized (i.e., totally unaware politically; slightly more aware of the implications of politics on nursing; beginning political astuteness; and politically astute, asset to nursing). Political astuteness of students as measured by the PAI prior to and at completion of the public policy learning activities will be compared. The assessment of changes in political astuteness contributes to the evaluation of learning activities designed to prepare nurses for their role as political advocates.