Creating and evaluating a global classroom to teach nursing research

Abstract

Background: The purpose of this educational innovation was to expose undergraduate nursing students to methods of research and evidence-based practice through dissemination at a research conference and interaction with nurse researchers.

Methods: Students from the United States attended an interdisciplinary research conference in Dublin Ireland that integrated the research process into their nursing education. In addition, they were exposed to a very different approach to nursing education through interaction within a global classroom.

Results: Following the experience, students expressed a greater understanding of the overall research process. Students were both surprised and impressed that bedside nurses could be actively engaged in research and could envision nursing research as a component of their scope of practice.

Conclusions: Infusion of research into pre-licensure programs remains a challenge for nursing faculty. International experiences and global classrooms can be a way to meet this challenge and raise enthusiasm about nursing research.