title: The Delphi technique: a worthwhile research approach for nursing?
abstract: Since its introduction as a research approach in the late 1940s the Delphi technique has had over 1000 published research utilizations. Most of these have been in the field of social policy. However, a review of contemporary nursing literature suggests that it is becoming a popular choice among nurse researchers. With its focus on maximizing participant's judgements and decision-making abilities the Delphi technique is a useful tool in the research armoury of a young profession. However, questions remain about its scientific respectability. This paper gives an overview of what the Delphi technique is, the criteria for selecting it as a research approach, the studies where it has been used and its advantages and disadvantages.
authors.affiliation: Department of Nursing, University of Ulster, Coleraine, County Londonderry, Northern Ireland.
authors.forename: H P
authors.initials: HP
authors.lastname: McKenna
mesh_terms: D002755:Choice Behavior; D003657:Decision Making; D003697:Delphi Technique; D006801:Humans; D007600:Judgment; D015399:Nursing Research / Q000193:education / Q000379:methods* / Q000592:standards; D015203:Reproducibility of Results; D012108:Research Personnel / Q000523:psychology