Bridging the Theory-Practice Gap in Nursing Education in India: Exploring the Role of Simulation-Based Learning and AI-Driven Education

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This is an unedited manuscript accepted for publication and provided as an Article in Press for early access at the author’s request. The article will undergo copyediting, typesetting, and galley proof review before final publication. Please be aware that errors may be identified during production that could affect the content. All legal disclaimers of the journal apply.

Year : 2025 | Volume : 15 | 02 | Page :
    By

    K. Sarojini,

  • Berlin Sara Thampy,

  1. Research Scholar, Department of Nursing Education and Administration Malwanchal University, Indore, India
  2. Research Supervisor, Department of Nursing Education and Administration Malwanchal University, Indore, India

Abstract

The theory-practice gap in nursing education is a persistent issue that hinders the effective application of theoretical knowledge in clinical practice, ultimately affecting the clinical competence and decision-making skills of nursing graduates. This study explores the factors contributing to the theory-practice gap in nursing education in India and evaluates the potential of simulation-based learning (SBL) and artificial intelligence (AI)-driven education in bridging this gap. A mixed-methods approach was employed, involving surveys of nursing students, faculty members, and clinical instructors, along with in-depth interviews and focus group discussions. The results indicate that nursing students perceive the theory-practice gap to be the most significant, with simulation-based learning receiving high satisfaction rates from students (80%) and faculty (70%). However, AI-driven education showed moderate satisfaction (50-60%), suggesting that while AI has potential, its integration into nursing curricula is still in the early stages. Faculty involvement in bridging the gap was found to be perceived more positively by faculty and clinical instructors than by students. The study concludes that while innovative teaching methods such as SBL and AI have great potential, their full integration requires further investment in faculty training, resources, and infrastructure. Strengthening mentorship programs and increasing clinical placements are essential steps to ensure nursing students are adequately prepared for real-world patient care. Addressing these challenges will be crucial for improving nursing education in India and enhancing the quality of healthcare delivery.

Keywords: Theory-practice gap, Nursing education, Simulation-based learning (SBL), Artificial intelligence (AI), Clinical competence

How to cite this article:
K. Sarojini, Berlin Sara Thampy. Bridging the Theory-Practice Gap in Nursing Education in India: Exploring the Role of Simulation-Based Learning and AI-Driven Education. Journal of Nursing Science & Practice. 2025; 15(02):-.
How to cite this URL:
K. Sarojini, Berlin Sara Thampy. Bridging the Theory-Practice Gap in Nursing Education in India: Exploring the Role of Simulation-Based Learning and AI-Driven Education. Journal of Nursing Science & Practice. 2025; 15(02):-. Available from: https://journals.stmjournals.com/jonsp/article=2025/view=210117


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Ahead of Print Subscription Original Research
Volume 15
02
Received 03/05/2025
Accepted 12/05/2025
Published 13/05/2025
Publication Time 10 Days
419

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