Introduction • Dr Patricia Benner introduced the concept that expert nurses develop skills and understanding of patient care over time through a sound educational base as well as a multitude of experiences. • She proposed that one could gain knowledge and skills ('knowing how') without ever learning the theory ('knowing that'). • She further explains that the development of knowledge in applied disciplines such as medicine and nursing is composed of the extension of practical knowledge (know how) through research and the characterization and understanding of the 'know how' of clinical experience. • She coneptualizes in her writing about nursing skills as experience is a prerequisite for becoming an expert. ABOUT THE THEORIST • Patricia E. Benner, R.N., Ph. Feg P9r Serial Numbers there. D., FAAN is a Professor Emerita at the University of California, San Francisco.

From Novice To Expert 1984 From Novice to Expert to Mentor: Shaping the Future. Kathleen Dracup, RN, DNSc and. Christopher W.