Pilot testing an independent study series on research

The Army Nurse Corps developed The Critical Reading of Research Publications (CRRP) program, an independent study series for small groups. The goal of the program is to improve patient care by providing a means for nurses to learn basic research principles in a self-paced format, while reading and discussing nursing research articles of clinical relevance. Continuing education (CE) approval of the program required pilot testing to evaluate its ease of use, effectiveness, and allocation of CE contact hours. The purpose of pilot testing was to improve both the participants' experience and the administrative management of the CE program. The constructive feedback received by potential consumers resulted in incremental improvement of an innovative educational program in nursing research.