title: Teaching research and evidence-based practice using a service-learning approach.
abstract: Because nurses are expected to engage in evidence-based practice (EBP), nursing students must learn to critically evaluate and apply research findings to prepare for professional practice. To connect research and EBP, the focus of a baccalaureate research course was changed from a traditional format to one of evidence appraisal and synthesis. Using an approach that incorporated service-learning and collaborative learning resulted in a new hybrid course that provided students with an opportunity to apply concepts in the real world. Working with a community partner, students were able to develop PICO (Population, Intervention, Comparison, and Outcome) questions and critically appraise the literature to establish the evidence base for three pediatric programs. Students reported that working with a community partner was a meaningful experience because course assignments had a direct impact on current practice. Research courses taught from an EBP perspective can provide motivation for students to incorporate research into their practice as professional nurses.
authors.affiliation: Clinical Research Partnerships, Goldfarb School of Nursing, Barnes-Jewish College, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA. KaBalakas@bjc.org
authors.forename: Karen
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Balakas
authors.forename: Laurie
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Sparks
mesh_terms: D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D002983:Clinical Competence; D003152:Community Health Nursing / Q000193:education*; D003159:Community-Institutional Relations; D004059:Diffusion of Innovation; D004508:Education, Nursing, Baccalaureate / Q000379:methods*; D055317:Evidence-Based Practice / Q000193:education*; D006801:Humans; D024802:Nurse's Role / Q000523:psychology; D015399:Nursing Research / Q000193:education*; D010687:Philosophy, Nursing; D018794:Problem-Based Learning / Q000379:methods*; D016730:Program Development; D015397:Program Evaluation; D012108:Research Personnel / Q000193:education / Q000523:psychology; D013338:Students, Nursing / Q000523:psychology; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D013663:Teaching / Q000379:methods