This course, NRSG 305, introduces students to the development of nursing knowledge and the mobilization of evidence for nursing practice. An empirical approach to knowledge and theory development is taken through a review of research methodologies and the appraisal of evidence. Students are also introduced to the philosophical paradigms that underpin the science and art of nursing.
Experiential learning is a process where learners can be actively engaged in doing, reflecting, and actively using and adapting course material. Beyond traditional classroom boundaries, it can include hands-on learning and field study opportunities that support learning by applying classroom learning in real-time contexts.
Our instructor started working with the clinical nurse educator on a busy hospital unit six months before class started. Together, they identified an issue from practice that could be explored as experiential learning to help inform the unit team about technology use in busy and complex settings. Securing REB class-based ethical approval and operational approval from the Health Authority, along with support for the research librarian linked to the Health Research Institute at UNBC, helped bring this course to life through an applied approach.
Several students have shared testimonials at the end of the semester about the approach.
As a member of the data management team, my favourite part of the mock project was taking field trips to the hospital to conduct interviews and seeing how the data changed or stayed consistent with each visit. The perspective I have gained with this project is that I am better with using software than I initially thought. Furthermore, I realized how important timing is when collecting data. Since the healthcare workers are very busy, it showed the importance of time management in nursing, being considerate of the healthcare worker’s time, and helping manage my own so I could collect data from multiple participants.
To be honest, I was not that excited about this research class since, throughout my previous degree, that is all I did. Though it took some growing, I started enjoying this class. Seeing the collaboration and a more hands-on approach may be what my previous degree lacked. Working as a team, doing research, and interviewing nurses were all enjoyable, and it further reinforced my learning. This course has shown me that research does not just need to be the stereotype of drowning yourself in writing and reviewing papers, something I have been too familiar with and I’m truly grateful for that.
Before starting the nursing program, I had a Bachelor of Fine Arts in film and worked in closed captioning for a media company. I realized I wanted to shift direction and help others. I studied molecular biochemistry at UHNBC for three years before switching into the 4-year collaborative nursing program. This evidence course and mock research project really solidified how far I’ve come. Working with my team, developing questions, and analyzing real feedback from healthcare workers gave me a new perspective on how research supports meaningful change in practice. This program has changed me in the best ways—it’s helped me grow in confidence, communication, and how I connect with others.
As a member of the method team, the process of crafting interview questions was engaging. Through the process, I had an opportunity to think about what needs to be considered when creating a question. Understanding the research methodology was a valuable experience. As a nurse, obtaining information from patients is a crucial role in the patient’s care. Through the mock project, I learned the research process and the importance of effective interviews.
Being part of the data management team in our mock project was an exciting and rewarding experience. I enjoyed working with my team, organizing interview data, and analyzing findings to extract meaningful insights. The structured division of responsibilities made the process smooth and engaging. This project sharpened my ability to critically evaluate research, a skill that will be invaluable in my nursing career as I apply evidence-based practice to patient care.