Jeonbuk National University (JBNU) College of Nursing has produced meaningful results by linking an educational program that directly explored community-based mental health care sites in Japan to scholarly outcomes. In June, as part of a Glocal University Project, participating students experienced and learned about models of independent living for people with mental disorders through a global project-based learning (PBL) program, and their field experiences led to research outcomes.

This program participant, master's student Kim Jun-hyeok (supervisor Professor Jeong Jae-won), explored this learning experience through qualitative research and recently received the Outstanding Poster Award at the 2025 Fall Conference of the Korean Mental Health Nursing Association held at Korea University. Kim presented his study under the title 'Holistic Nursing in Textbooks Realized in Practice: Korean Nursing Students' Recovery-Oriented Learning Experiences at Bethel House in Japan,' receiving favorable reviews.

The JBNU College of Nursing visited Hokkaido, Japan in June with eight students, touring Bethel House and Hokkaido Medical University. The students directly experienced the independent living environments of people with mental disorders and, through exchanges with local activists and scholars, confirmed the importance of 'relationships' and 'roles' in the recovery process. This practice-centered learning, combined with the PBL approach, was evaluated to have enhanced field relevance and educational effectiveness.

Kim's research drew attention for demonstrating that such international field experiences can serve as a learning model that strengthens recovery-oriented nursing competencies. It is an example in which an outstanding overseas case led to actual research outcomes and awards, and is viewed as indicative of the JBNU College of Nursing's direction in educational innovation.

Kim Jun-hyeok said, 'I am deeply grateful to Professor Jeong Jae-won for his generous advice and assistance throughout the research process,' and added, 'Building on this achievement, I will devote myself further to practical nursing research that supports the recovery and community integration of people with mental disorders.'