Benner's Novice to Expert Theory

Benner's Novice to Expert theory describes the stages of skill development, particularly in nursing but applicable to various fields. It outlines five levels: Novice, Advanced Beginner, Competent, Proficient, and Expert. A Novice relies on rules and instructions, while an Advanced Beginner begins to apply knowledge in real situations. Competent individuals manage tasks with planning, Proficient practitioners see the bigger picture and adapt strategies, and Experts possess deep intuition and insights. This framework illustrates how experience and practice lead to greater understanding and mastery, helping individuals progress in their skills and decision-making capabilities over time.