Combining stories and numbers: a methodologic approach for a critical nursing science.
The critical paradigm is increasingly being recognized as an appropriate perspective for the development of nursing knowledge. While different research approaches including feminist, neo-Marxist, and participatory research have been described, all share the goals of empowerment, emancipation, and change. As a relatively new world-view for nursing, the concept of a critical nursing science faces much the same resistance as the interpretive paradigm did a decade ago. This article reviews the aims and assumptions of the critical paradigm; discusses the merits of combining stories and numbers for the agenda of change; and, using examples from our research, describes three strategies for combining stories and numbers in the critical paradigm.
Berman
H
H
NHRDP/MRC, School of Nursing, University of Western Ontario, London, Canada.
Ford-Gilboe
M
M
Campbell
J C
JC
D019317:Evidence-Based Medicine; D006801:Humans; D019359:Knowledge; D015404:Nursing Methodology Research / Q000379:methods* / Q000458:organization & administration*; D009937:Organizational Objectives; D010687:Philosophy, Nursing; D011209:Power, Psychological; D012107:Research Design / Q000592:standards*