Adapting to change: Undergraduate nursing students' sense of belonging transitioning from online to in‐person learning environments

Aim To examine undergraduate nursing students' sense of belonging as they transitioned from online to in‐person learning. Design A mixed‐method design employing a Sense of Belonging Survey and three open‐ended questions. Methods Participants were first‐year undergraduate nursing students who were back to in‐person learning after 3 years of online learning during the pandemic. The survey was administered online in April 2023 using Qualtrics survey software. The survey data were analysed using descriptive statistics, and the open‐ended questions were analysed by deductive thematic analysis. Results Seventy‐five (48%) of the 155 potential participants responded to the survey. The mean score on the Sense of Belonging Survey was 74%, a positive finding suggesting that many participants feel that they ‘belong’ in the classroom. Three overarching themes were identified in response to the open‐ended questions: factors supporting students' sense of belonging, factors hindering students' sense of belonging and strategies for faculty, administrators and students to increase a sense of belonging. Conclusion Understanding the factors that contribute to or hinder nursing students' sense of belonging during this transition will assist in developing strategies to mitigate challenges, foster a positive learning environment and enhance the overall sense of belonging among nursing students. Impact The first year of a nursing programme is crucial for student retention as students require tailored programmes and strategies to support their success. Examining and analysing the transition from online to in‐person classroom settings is crucial to identifying strategies to enhance and support first‐year students' sense of belonging and academic success. Exploring nursing students' experiences of belonging during transitions contributes to a more inclusive and equitable educational experience, fostering an environment where all students can thrive and succeed. Patient or Public Contribution Not applicable.