Learning in a web of commitments.

Drawing on interviews and survey results from a national study of nursing education, this article discusses student learning related to professional responsibilities. It explores what is missing when students do not have the opportunity to reflect on the multiple commitments they will meet in nursing. Inspired by the moral philosopher Larry May's communitarian approach, we suggest students must learn a broad notion of professional responsibility. We demonstrate reasons why students need the opportunity to reflect on issues concerning the civic, moral, and societal dimensions of professional responsibility. We also indicate ways for students to reflect as part of their educational experience.