Master of Health Studies/
Master of Nursing (MHST/NURS) 603
Facilitating Inquiry

Introduction
In MHST/NURS 603, we examine a number of issues related to our roles in facilitating inquiry. We investigate values that drive research questions, and identify appropriate research methods to facilitate inquiry in our fields of practice. We also learn basic elements of quantitative and qualitative research methods. In this journey to facilitate inquiry, we learn to become more research-minded in health care practice. We will also learn a variety of approaches to data collection and analysis through “doing” mini projects in assigned lab groups.
Course Goals
MHST/NURS 603 is designed to help students achieve the following course goals.
- Identify philosophical viewpoints in research methods.
- Identify values that drive research questions.
- Explain methodology used in quantitative and qualitative approaches to research.
- Conduct a variety of research activities (e.g. interviews, focus groups, statistical analyses)
- Explain the relationship of research to the development of theory and subsequent application.
- Propose ways to incorporate research into health care practice.
- Critically evaluate various aspects of research reports.
- Develop awareness of ethical issues in research.
Course Materials
- Study Guide (online)
- Online Readings (these are hot linked within the course)
Textbook
Leedy, P.D., & Ormrod, J.E. (2013). Practical research: Planning and design (10th ed.). Merrill, Upper Saddle River, New Jersey: Pearson.
Technical Requirements
Computer System
In order to successfully complete this course, you must own or have ready access to certain computer hardware and software programs. For complete and up-to-date information on the minimum computer requirements required to complete the graduate nursing courses, visit the Centre for Nursing and Health Studies technical site.
Course Outline
MHST/NURS 603 comprises 7 units as follows:
Unit 1: Thinking about Research: Getting Started
Unit 2: Theoretical and Philosophical Foundations of Research
Unit 3: Research: Designing the Process
Unit 4: Research Using Qualitative Methodologies
Unit 5: Research Using Quantitative Methodologies
Unit 6: Research: Utilization and Dissemination
Unit 7: Research: Wrap-up: Issues and Questions
Assessment Structure
The assessment structure for MHST/NURS 603 is based on the following course activities, with the percentage weighting of each activity as indicated. Your final grade for the course will be a composite mark based on your performance on these course activities. To pass MHST/NURS 603, you must attain a minimum average of 60% . You must also attain a minimum average of 60% (24/40) for Assignment 1 and Assignment 3.
| Conference Participation and Resource Forum: | 15% |
| Assignment 1: Qualitative Research Assignment | Due Week 5 | |
30% |
| Assignment 2: Use of Statistics | Due Week 9 | |
20% |
| Assignment 3: Lab Group Integrated Report & Presentation | Report Due Week 11 and Presentations | Due Week 11 and 12 | |
35% |
| Total | 100% |
Athabasca University reserves the right to amend course outlines occasionally and without notice. Courses offered by other delivery methods may vary from their individualized-study counterparts.
View previous syllabus
For questions or comments regarding this site, email: CNHS Webmaster
Last updated by G. Zahara 02/28/2013 11:00:31