Aim To explore baccalaureate nursing students’ perceptions of what makes an effective tutor in problem-based learning courses, and the influence of effective teaching on students’ learning and experience.

Method Students enrolled in all four years of a baccalaureate nursing programme completed online surveys (n=511) and participated in focus groups (n=19). Data were analysed and combined using content analysis.

Findings The data were summarised using five themes, the ‘5 Ps’ of effective teaching in problem-based learning. Nursing students perceived effective problem-based learning tutors to be prepared with knowledge and facilitation skills, person-centred, passionate, professional and able to prepare students for success in the nursing programme. Effective tutors adjusted their approaches to students throughout the four years of the nursing programme.

Conclusion Effective teaching in problem-based learning is essential and has significant effects on nursing students’ learning, motivation and experience. Important attributes, skills and strategies of effective problem-based learning tutors were identified and may be used to enhance teaching and plan professional development initiatives.

In my fourth year of a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN) degree at Mohawk College in Canada, I took a nursing research course that included a six-week research practice placement.