Praxis is the underlying process used in this course. Participants critically examine how nurses “know” and processes of inquiry in nursing. Beginning from the perspective of oneself as a knower, participants continue to explore how to become knowers within the discipline of nursing and how to engage as active participants in the development of the growing body of knowledge in nursing. Critical reflection, values, experiences, and theory are integrated. Building on previous knowledge, participants develop skill in critical evaluation of knowledge.
The focus of this course is knowledge development in nursing. Course concepts are addressed in relation to the four foundational concepts (ways of knowing, personal meaning, time/transitions, and culture/context), integrating the metaconcepts of health promotion and caring. Participants’ experiences, interests, and choices are considered. The nurse’s role in knowledge development is emphasized. Course concepts and essential content are as follows:
Inquiry
- personal meaning
- world views (paradigm influences)
- reflection
- ways of knowing
- knowledge
- emancipatory knowledge
- ethical ways of knowing
- gendered ways of knowing
- sociopolitical ways of knowing
- recognition of legitimate knowledge
Ways of Inquiring
- historical influences
- informatics
- discipline influences
- hegemony
- philosophical influences
- moral reasoning
- paradigm influences (and world views)
- postmodernism
Nursing Theories and Concepts (individuals and families)
- theorizing
- assumptions
Praxis
- workplace issues related to nursing inquiry
In this course, participants have opportunities to:
- examine the processes and meanings of knowledge development for the nursing profession
- explore the processes of inquiry in nursing
Course evaluation is consistent with Douglas College Curriculum Development and Approval Policy. An evaluation schedule is presented at the beginning of the course. There will be a minimum of three assessments which will typically include exams, quizzes, papers, and/or presentations. Respect for individual choice and an openness to negotiate will guide decisions about methods of evaluation.
This is a graded course.
Textbooks and Materials to be Purchased by Participants: [and other Learning Resources]
- Planned Praxis Experience
- nursing practice experience in health promotion and community empowerment
- Textbooks and Materials to be Purchased by Participants
- A list of recommended textbooks and materials is provided for participants at the beginning of each semester.
- Other Resources
- selected readings
- selected audiovisual and computer resources