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Using Learning Outcome Measures to assess Doctoral Nursing Education
Published on: June 21, 2010
Outcomes of master's education in nursing
C E Betty Cragg1, Mary-Anne Andrusyszyn
1University of Ottawa. bcragg@uottawa.ca
Abstract:
This qualitative, descriptive study examined changes in perspective experienced by 22 recent graduates of Master's in Nursing programs from three Ontario universities. Participants responded to semi-structured, taped interviews and recounted personal, practice, and attitudinal changes they could attribute to completing a Master's program in Nursing. Among outcomes were personal ones including greater self-confidence, credibility, and acuity of critical thinking. Deeper and broader world-views of the profession and health care were evident. All participants valued evidence-based practice, reporting greater use of multiple information sources. Participants communicated with other professionals on more equal terms and some described a multicultural function, translating knowledge between staff nurses and members of other disciplines. Pride in nursing and its potential for shaping health care was a recurring theme. More professional opportunities became available following Master's studies. The outcomes of this study contribute to understanding the effects of graduate education in nursing.
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