Convocation Spotlight: Tatiana Penconek

Tatiana Penconek

After a bachelor of science in nursing from the University of Alberta, Tatiana Penconek went on to complete a master of nursing at Athabasca University before returning to the U of A to pursue a PhD. As she graduates with her doctorate, she shares with us the focus of her research and why that research is key to improving the future of nursing education.

What was the focus of your research? 

The focus of my research was to advance the investigation of incivility in nursing education. I reported on the antecedents and consequences of incivility in higher education through a scoping review of the literature. Through a structural equation model, I also examined the effects of student and course/clinical instructor incivility on undergraduate nursing student perceptions of their well-being, stress, academic experience and program satisfaction.

How do you see that research impacting communities in the future?

Advancing the investigation of incivility in nursing education can help us to better understand this problem and focus on solutions through strategies and interventions to not only prevent or stop the occurrence of these behaviours, but to also mitigate the effects of this problem. These solutions can target the development and maintenance of collegiality, collaboration and effective communication that foster positive relationships among nursing students that may influence relationships in future nursing practice. 

How did you stay motivated when things got tough?

Connecting with the community of PhD peers was instrumental to staying motivated and getting through the challenges. My PhD supervisor was also very responsive and supportive.

Did you receive any financial awards?

I was very fortunate to receive several awards, including the Dr. Shirley Stinson Scholarship in Nursing History (2021) and the Alberta Graduate Excellence Scholarship (2023).

What was your go-to spot on campus? 

Starbucks in ECHA of course! Not only was it a place to have coffee; it was a place to connect with my peers.

What exceptional experiences stand out in your memory?

In the Faculty of Nursing, I worked in several research assistant positions, as a research co-ordinator and as a research program manager. These experiences allowed me to build my research skills, and also gave me multiple opportunities to become part of research networks where I interacted with methodologists, senior researchers, decision-makers in health-care systems and the people for whom research is intended, such as family members of long-term care residents. The exposure to these networks will be invaluable to the development of my future nursing program. 

What advice would you give to a student thinking of entering this program?

Think of your research proposal early on, and be sure to connect with your peers! It is definitely a worthwhile experience — enjoy it! 

What comes next for you?

 In my future academic career, I hope to identify and support solutions for improving issues such as the physical and mental health of the nursing workforce, which affect the quality of work-life outcomes.