PURPOSE
This study aims to explore general perception types about the life of institutionalized elderly and thus to provide the basic data for nursing intervention for them. METHOD: This study used a Q methodology. A Q sample was developed through a review of related literature and descriptions of ordinary people about the life of institutionalized elderly. Thirty-eight statements made up the finalized Q sample. RESULTS: The results revealed three different types of the general people's perception about the life of institutionalized elderly. Type 1 is an optimistic group which expects modernized institutions. This group focuses on social relationships enjoying a variety of cultural life. Type 2 is a positive group which pursues independence. They are open-minded about the use of the institution and are not ashamed of the life in the institution. Type 3 is a conservative group which disapproves institutionalization. The members of this group strongly disapprove the institution itself and have negative views on institutionalization. These three types share certain common features while having distinctive characteristics showing individual views and traits about the life of the institutionalized elderly. CONCLUSION: This study will provide us the basic data to understand institutionalized elderly and to develop nursing intervention for them.

The purpose of this study is to explore perception types and to understand the nature of experience of nursing students' clinical education by using the Q methodology. A Q sample was developed through a review of the literature and descriptions about nursing students' experience in clinical practice. Thirty-six statements made up the finalized Q sample. The P sample consisted of 33 third grade nursing students in K university. Q statements were written on separate cards and were given to the 33 subjects to sort according to degree of agreement or disagreement. The Q-sorts by each subject were coded and analysed with the Quanl PC program. A a result, three major perception types, namely, 'alienation of ideal and reality', 'active participation', and 'perception of limitation of ability' were identified. By identifying the nature of the three types, this study suggests efficient strategies for developing clinical educational programs according to the perception types of nursing students. Clinical education would thereby be more valuable.