Addressing the community research needs of baccalaureate students

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Evidence-Based Practice
• Online Learning

Background:

• The need to bridge the gap between research and clinical practice in nursing is critical.
• Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN-BSN) programs face challenges in delivering content effectively online.
• Integrating research findings into clinical practice is a key competency for advanced nursing roles.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe an online course designed to equip RN-BSN students with skills to apply research findings in clinical settings.
• To outline a pedagogical approach where students develop research proposals addressing real-world community health needs.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of online didactic content in preparing nurses for evidence-based practice.

Main Methods:

• Development of a fully online didactic course for RN-BSN students.
• Student-led development of research proposals under faculty guidance.
• Identification of community health needs through collaboration with a local hospital and nursing center.

Main Results:

• Students successfully developed research proposals addressing identified community needs.
• The online course format facilitated the assimilation of research principles into practical application.
• Faculty successfully delivered comprehensive didactic content entirely online.

Conclusions:

• An online course structure can effectively prepare RN-BSN students to translate research into clinical practice.
• Student engagement in developing research proposals enhances their ability to address community health issues.
• Online learning environments are viable for delivering advanced nursing education focused on evidence-based practice.