Sammanfattning
The impetus for writing this article is the critical attitudes one sometimes encounters when
students undertake electives in developing countries. The article aims to shed light on learning and
developmental aspects of an elective stay in Uganda.
Since the authors are at different points in their careers, the elective stays are approached from two
angles. The one angle is that of experienced nurses and educators, the other is that of module 6
nursing students. The lecturers and nursing students were on the same elective and experienced the
hospital's nursing model and culture on an equal footing. This has resulted in an extensive dialogue
about the learning that takes place before, during and after the stay, and it is part of the dialogue
upon which this article is based.
This article highlights some of the learning aspects associated with an elective stay, and are based
on personal experiences supported by theories. Particular focus is placed on learning in and from
squalid conditions, and adhering to and reflecting on one's own practice and professional identity.
The conclusion is, that elective stays in Africa are highly demanding on a personal level, but also
that such electives have potential to develop nursing knowledge.