Strategies for synthesis of concepts, statements, and theories are practiced. Emphasis is placed on the appropriateness of each methodology for description and explanation of nursing phenomena. Experience is provided in problem formulation and development of the qualitative research proposal. Practice in data collection methods and initial phases of analysis is provided. Students conduct fieldwork to implement a qualitative nursing research proposal.
Emphasis is placed on advanced application of the various qualitative methodologies.
Extended experience in qualitative data analysis is provided, including both interpretive and more structured approaches. Advanced technologies for collection and analysis of data are utilized. Students examine various approaches to instrumentation. They also use existing data to refine selected measures. Reliability and validity are emphasized in the evaluation of item and scale characteristics, and the students prepare manuscripts formatted for publication.