This study was a part of feasibility project designed to determine the learning needs and find collaborative approaches to strengthening the ability of nursing personnel and the caring system in 3 southern provinces of Thailand. Data collection procedures included interviews and focus groups with a total of 135 subjects who included community and religious leaders, leaders and staff of health care organizations, private sector citizens and high school students. Eight hospitals were visited and observed. The data were collected during April to October, 2005. The results were as follows:
1. Several groups indicated a strong need to have assistance in expanding their capacity to work effectively. Various supports were indicated as being needed, such as a quota for continuing education, preparation courses, improved housing facilities, and some form of co-op learning program, working while studying.
2. Data from focus group discussion with staff nurses and head nurses found that training as clinical instructors and updating professional knowledge were important. The observations in both regional and community hospitals revealed that learning facilities for the students were fairly good, but required additional resources such as libraries, study materials.
3. The private organizations and other stakeholders supported the idea of and increased community role for nurses, who should be prepared to effectively work in culturally diverse communities. The learners indicated a perceived need for help in expanding their capacity with various supports requested. The idea of collaboration to increase the number of nurses in the hospitals of the 3 southern provinces hospitals was supported by focusing on the fairness of the recruitment process and including males to eventually work in this region.