As nurse educators, we pour our energy into developing others—building the next generation of nurses through clinical instruction, curriculum design, and professional mentorship. But while we’re shaping future professionals, it’s easy to forget that our own growth matters too.
Summer is the perfect season to hit pause, refresh your mind, and rekindle your passion for education with a good book. Whether you’re sitting by the pool, catching a quiet moment between shifts, or relaxing in a hammock, these books offer insights, inspiration, and innovation for nursing educators at every stage.
Why Ongoing Development Matters (Even for the Developers)
Nurse educators and Nursing Professional Development (NPD) practitioners are the backbone of healthcare advancement. But, we can’t empower others if we aren’t nurturing ourselves.
Continuing Professional Development (CPD) is more than a checkbox for Continuing Education (CE) credits—it’s about staying inspired, keeping pace with evolving best practices, and refining the tools that help us educate more effectively. A well-rounded educator is one who reads widely, reflects often, and remains a lifelong learner.
Summer offers a unique window to do just that—outside the bustle of semesters, clinical rotations, and onboarding seasons.
8 Recommended Summer Reads for Nurse Educators
- “The Nurse Educator’s Guide to Assessing Learning Outcomes” by Mary McDonald
A must-have for creating meaningful assessments and evaluations. This book includes practical tools for test writing, rubrics, and clinical performance checklists—ideal for both classroom and online educators.
- “Teaching in Nursing and Role of the Educator” by Marilyn Oermann & Kathleen Gaberson
A foundational guide that explores evidence-based teaching strategies, learning theory, and instructional methods—perfect for new and seasoned educators alike.
- “Critical Conversations in Healthcare” by Cheri Clancy
This book improves communication and coaching skills, offering scripts and scenarios for tough conversations with learners, staff, or peers. A fantastic resource for those in leadership and educator roles.
- “The Influential Mind” by Tali Sharot
While not nursing-specific, this neuroscience-based book explores how people change their minds. Essential for nurse educators seeking to motivate, influence, and teach more effectively.
- “Evidence-Based Teaching in Nursing” by Sharon Cannon & Marilyn Boswell
Packed with up-to-date research and actionable techniques for integrating evidence-based practice into your teaching, this book is a practical toolbox for nurse faculty and clinical educators.
- “From Silence to Voice: What Nurses Know and Must Communicate to the Public” by Bernice Buresh & Suzanne Gordon
This book empowers educators and nurses alike to speak up, advocate for the profession, and encourage students to find their voices.
- “Designing and Teaching Online Courses in Nursing” by Dr. Sally Kennedy
With the rise of hybrid and online learning, this book equips educators with strategies to build engaging virtual content and foster meaningful learner interactions.
- “Atomic Habits” by James Clear
Although not nursing-specific, this bestseller is a powerful resource for anyone seeking to cultivate better habits in teaching, learning, and life. Think of it as self-care for your professional mindset.
Bonus Tip: Start a Summer Educator Book Club!
Whether virtual or in-person, reading with peers can spark deeper discussions and inspire collaborative projects. Consider selecting one or two of the books above and inviting fellow nurse educators or NPD professionals to join in for monthly discussions.
Final Thoughts
As educators, we’re constantly filling others’ cups. This summer, take the time to fill your own. Whether it’s brushing up on evidence-based teaching, refining your assessment skills, or just rediscovering the joy of learning—these reads can reinvigorate your passion for the profession.
Because when nurse educators grow, everyone benefits—students, patients, institutions, and the entire profession.
