This research aims to understand the experience of students in the Bachelor and Teaching Diploma Nursing programs at the University of São Paulo in Ribeirão Preto College of Nursing (EERP/USP), Brazil, with respect to group learning, in subjects that permit working in small student groups. Non-structured interviews were held with 19 second-year students from the two programs, between April and December 2007. Qualitative data analysis was used, configuring codification categories: group work facilitates cognitive and attitudinal learning; group work reveals limits and demands changes; group work demands preparation and new competence from the teacher; group work permits an exercise for professional practice. Working in small groups makes it possible to exercise the professional practice. The group strategy contributes to the teaching-learning process, promoting changes in the student's relation with the knowledge, teachers, fellow students and themselves.
Nursing; Learning; Group Processes