This paper examines the study "Driven and No Regrets: A Qualitative Analysis of Students Earning Baccalaureate Degrees in Three Years," by authors Michael Firmin and Krista Merrick Gilson.
Abstract In this article, the writer discusses that in the study, "Driven and No Regrets: A Qualitative Analysis of Students Earning Baccalaureate Degrees in Three Years," authors Michael Firmin and Krista Merrick Gilson illuminate the motivations and causes of a student pursuing an undergraduate degree in three years. The writer details the goals, the methods and the results of the analysis, as well as provides subjective opinion on the subject itself, the study and the larger questions raised. The writer concludes that the idea of a three year baccalaureate degree is not only a sound fiscal decision; it is an idea that should be perpetuated throughout the curriculum of high schools nationwide as a viable option for students.
Outline:
Type of Research
Purpose of Research
Research Design
Instrumentation/Observation
Description of Sample
Recruiting Method
Data Collection
Data Analysis
Results
Conclusion
From the Paper " The purpose of the study is to discover themes and patterns in the decision to take on a baccalaureate degree in three years. In this sense, the authors set out to discover what motivations were present in the decision-making process, what sorts of backgrounds the students were coming from, and what determining criterion were present. In a broader sense, the authors recognized the ever-increasing cost of secondary education in the United States, and, especially when one in three students are earning a degree, the need for a more cost-effective undergraduate education. By choosing a three-year program, these authors hope to tap into the minds of the students to discover motivating factors, and personality characteristics that led to a decision to graduate in three years."
Abstract This paper explains that the private St. Petersburg Junior College was the first successful junior college in Florida and that Palm Beach Junior College was the first public junior college, founded in 1933. The author points out that, in 1957, the Community College Council recommended that community colleges be established within commuting distance of 99% of the population in Florida, thus beginning the expansion of the community college system. Today, there are 28 community colleges in Florida. The paper relates that some of the community colleges have initiated baccalaureate degrees, particularly in education, nursing and applied science, and certification and re-certification of teachers.
From the Paper "Community and Junior Colleges in the United States accommodated many students who would otherwise not be able to attend college. These students have various reasons for not attending Community Colleges. Two reasons that are at the forefront are financial constraints and inadequate high school academic grades. Community colleges offered students vocational education, adult education, associate degree programs and the first 2 years of a baccalaureate degree."
Abstract This paper takes an in-depth look at games as a way of engaging nursing students and maintaining their attention. This research study compares the effectiveness of two teaching strategies, lecture only and lecture with gaming, in baccalaureate nursing students' immediate knowledge and knowledge retention, using the concepts of arterial blood gases as the teaching exemplar. This study also explores students' attitudes towards gaming as an instructional strategy in nursing education.
Outline:
Chapter 1
Purposes of the Study
Statement of the Problems
Research Questions
Statement of Hypotheses
Theoretical Framework
Definition of Terms
Assumptions of the Study
Significance of the Study
Summary
Chapter 2
Review of the Literature
Theoretical Framework
Overview of Gaming
Gaming in Nursing Education
From the Paper "Another game that demonstrated cognitive outcome gains was McDougal's (1992) 'Ionic Exchange Game.' According to McDougal, the game was developed to increase student involvement, understanding of electrolyte imbalances, and outcomes of interventions. To play the game, students are divided into groups representing intracellular and extracellular components, the cell membrane, mobile ions, and water molecules. Scenarios are presented and the students physically move across the cell membrane accordingly based on their knowledge of fluid and electrolyte exchange. A debriefing occurred after each scenario by the teacher which included a summary of key components. Advantages to the game included increased active student involvement, reinforcement of learning, and enhancement of group problem-solving skills."
A critical analysis of "Computerized Patient Model and Simulated Clinical Experiences: Evaluation with Baccalaureate Nursing Students," written by C.E. Feingold, M. Calaluce and M.A. Kallen.
Abstract This paper reviews the article "Computerized Patient Model and Simulated Clinical Experiences: Evaluation with Baccalaureate Nursing Students," written by C.E. Feingold, M. Calaluce and M.A. Kallen. The paper begins by discussing the purpose for the research and then reviews the research design and literature. It concludes with a look at the recommendations by the authors and a discussion of the implications of the study.
Table of Contents:
Problem and Purpose
Literature Review
Study Framework
Research Questions/Hypothesis
Study Variables
Study Design
Population, Sample and Setting
Method of Measurement
Data Collection
Data Analysis
Interpretation of Findings
Conclusions
Recommendations
Implications for Practice
Qualification of the Researchers
Significance of Study
From the Paper "As mentioned above, the significance of this study is in the fact that simulated clinical situations with the use of technology, while still being improved, is progressing towards a more realistic experience in the setting of timely faculty guidance and a safe environment within which to acquire fundamental clinical skills. It is also significant in that it provides insight into the disparity between faculty, student and student subset perspectives regarding the value of these simulations, aspects which need to be explored further in future research."
Tags: clinical, nursing, research, design, practice
A presentation of a specific patient care situation that compares the nursing care based on education preparation at the associate degree and baccalaureate degree levels.
Abstract This paper explores nursing education preparation. It specifically compares and differentiates the competencies of nurses prepared at the associate degree and baccalaureate degree levels. The paper then presents a specific patient care situation and compares the nursing care based on education preparation, specifically in the areas of provider of care, coordinator of care and member of profession.
Table of Contents:
Provider of Care
Coordinator of Care
Member of Profession
Differentiating Nursing Care Based on Education Preparation Using a Patient Care Situation
Provider of Care
Coordinator of Care
Member of Profession
From the Paper "The associate degree and baccalaureate degree of nursing education creates different levels competencies. As a provider of care, both are competent in similar behaviors, while the BSN must work to improve on the administration of nursing care. As coordinators of care, both have the same client-centered goals, although the BSN has a larger client focus and contributes to the processes of their organization while encouraging and assisting others. As a member of the profession, the ADN focuses on self-maturation, whereas the BSN enhances themselves as well as being a resource to others in the health care team so that the nursing profession may evolve."
Abstract This presentation examines the current growing controversy over the educational preparedness of the nurse. The paper covers the following question: Is the minimal competency to be considered a professional a diploma, associates degree or a baccalaureate? A comparison is made between the most popular nursing program: the associate degree to the purported panacea of nursing education: the BSN.
From the Paper "The theory being researched states entry-level registered nurses should be baccalaureate prepared (BSN). This proposition is met with a plethora of mixed and heartfelt feelings, and with good reason. To research the subject being partial to the Associate prepared nurse, I was faced with some bias. First of all, it is important for professional registered nurses to realize that they are just that: professionals. Many proponents of the BSN feel that in order for nurses to be regarded as such, they need a four-year degree. The American Nurses Association (ANA) believes that baccalaureate-nursing education is necessary to prepare the nursing workforce for the challenges of a complex and changing health care system (Con?, 2000"
Abstract A study designed to examine the learning styles of nursing students in undergraduate programs at the baccalaureate and associate level. Student age, gender, and academic performance in nursing courses is also investigated to determine the way in which these factors are associated with student learning styles. The purpose of the study is to assess the degree to which such factors represent important variables for nursing educators to consider in developing and implementing plans for retaining nursing students. As it has been suggested that a major factor responsible for student success or failure is the effectiveness of the teaching-learning process, it is hoped that the findings of the study will be useful in aiding nursing education programs to more fully respond to the learning needs of student nurses.
Contents
Introduction
Statement of the Problem
Purpose of the Study
Research Questions
Theoretical Framework
Organization of the Thesis
Literature Review
Andragogical Model vs. Pedagogical Model
Learning Styles and the Learner-Centered Approach
Kolb's Learning Cycle
Research Methodology
Research Design
Research Method
Data Analysis
From the Paper "As evidenced throughout the literature, extensive efforts have not been implemented to study the degree to which teachers do actually use a different style when teaching adults. Two seminal studies (i.e., Beder & Darkenwald, 1982; Gorham 1984, 1985) examined this area by investigating the following questions: Do teachers teach adults in a different way, and if so, what are these differences? In both studies, subjects were teachers who taught both adults and preadults. In the Beder and Darkenwald study, information was collected solely through a self-report questionnaire. Gorham used an adaptation of Beder and Darkenwald's questionnaire for the initial phase of her study, followed up with classroom observations of a small number of her sample for a second phase."
Tags: research, psycholofy, medical, nurse, care, health, adult, education, development
Abstract The paper reviews the arguments offered by both sides in the debate on whether nursing certification should be given to graduates of two-year programs or only to graduates of four-year programs. The paper cites studies which have been presented as proof by proponents of either course. The paper concludes that additional education makes sense when it is qualified with more practical experience.
From the Paper "The issue of RN education has been much debated. Proponents of the BSN cite increased managerial skills, enhanced critical thinking abilities, and improved patient safety, while advocates of the two-year program stress the value of pragmatic, hands-on clinical experience and point out that the demands of the nursing shortage require a more immediate source of trained registered nurses. Finally, some have advocated a third-course, which involves programs that enable both BSN's and ADN's to pursue graduate qualifications."
Abstract The paper discusses the shortage of experienced nurses in hospitals throughout the United States. The paper describes the consequences of this shortage, which include emergency department overcrowding and surgery cancellation. The paper explains the factors driving this shortage, which include the aging of the current nurse workforce and an ongoing drop in the enrollment in baccalaureate and master's degree nursing programs. The paper discusses how the inability of younger RNs to replace the aging baby-boom RNs suggest that the demographic forces underpinning the RN labor market will not ease for many years to come. Therefore, resolving these shortages will not be easy and are likely to require long-term and highly innovative initiatives.
From the Paper "The United States is facing a critical shortage of registered nurses, and by the year 2020, the average RN vacancy rate in the U.S. will be 20 percent (Mikhail 2005). The shortage of registered nurses has contributed to emergency department overcrowding, increased hospital diversions, bed and patient care unite closures and surgery cancellation, and poses a clear threat to trauma center viability (Mikhail 2005). According to the April 01, 2005 issue of Journal of Trauma Nursing, the problem can be framed as the classic supply and demand dilemma (Mikhail 2005)."
This paper discusses the American Nurses Association (ANA), the only full-service professional organization representing the nation's 2.9 million registered nurses (RNs) through its 54 constituent member associations.
Abstract This paper explains that the American Nurses Association (ANA) advances the nursing profession by fostering high standards of nursing practice, promoting the economic and general welfare of nurses in the workplace, projecting a positive and realistic view of nursing and lobbying the Congress and regulatory agencies on health care issues affecting nurses and the public. The author stresses that ANA, as part of various nursing umbrella organizations, promotes a unified advocacy to any cause-oriented or socially relevant issues affecting the society and health care profession. The paper relates that a regular membership in the American Nurses Association requires a baccalaureate degree, Registered Nurse (RN) certification and a license to practice the nursing profession the United States; however, additional categories of membership are available for foreign, unemployed, student, disabled and elderly nurses.
Table of Contents:
Overview of the Organization
The Statement of Purpose of the Organization
Advantages and Disadvantages of Membership in the Organization
Requirements for Membership in the Organization
Why this Organization Interests You?
From the Paper "A major drawback of the ANA is the membership dues - at $ 255.00 for the Full Membership Dues, some nurse practitioners, especially those in economically depressed areas of the United States, will find the amount steep! Although it is a prestigious organization to be part of, this stature costs a bundle. The ANA have Reduced and Special Dues though but these are for student, unemployed and retired nurses. Another possible disadvantage of joining the ANA is the political agenda they endorse; a particular member or a group of members may not believe or may be against some of the association's political agenda."
Abstract This paper reviews and discusses law enforcement as a career. According to the paper, over thirty years ago, the President's Crime Commission made the universal recommendation that every officer hold at least a baccalaureate degree. This paper researches and demonstrates a substantial positive fall out from the recommendation and the subsequent adoption of rules by many local and regional police forces regarding the holding of such degrees as mandate to either entering the police force or achieving growth in a professional level of service.
From the Paper "The assumptions of such an approach would be associated mainly with the individuals' reception to policing as a professional position that requires effort and education on the part of the potential individual officer. The growth of research on policing is a met assumption of the strategy of recommending and or requiring higher education for individual officers. The research has created a body of knowledge with regard to policing that is indispensable and will likely continue to do so. Developing a specialized education system for police officers and later commissioners and supervisory staff demonstrates the assumption that through such an education and a system the individual officer will be better prepared for the task and current on technology they may be utilizing to perform their jobs as officers and or detectives. As early as 1919 the development of creating a specialized sense of professionalism through education and on the job training is present and to a large degree the thoughts on the subject are that it has met its early assumptions and goals."
Abstract This paper explains that present day nursing practices guided by research-based evidence are replacing the old paradigm of anecdotal experience handed down from mentor to student. The author points out that the inquisitiveness, critical thinking and methods required for evaluating and creating research are critical to upholding the standard of nursing care. The paper stresses that the readiness to accept and appreciate evidence-based practice, as well as ascertain obstacles to its practice, are important issues that need to be addressed by the nursing professional both individually and as part of a group or unit.
Table of Contents:
Review of Literature
Strategies for Implementation
Conclusion
From the Paper "A nurse should be able to assimilate the vast amount of literature available to her, but also be able to screen out irrelevant ones and "fit" useful ones to her patients' individual needs in a systematic manner. This is best exemplified in evidence-based practice. Evidence-based practice by nurses is the process of arriving at clinically relevant research questions, attempting to gather evidence that answers these questions, determining the applicability of evidence in practice by determining its benefits, risks, cost-effectiveness, etc. and putting the answers to practice."
Tags: barriers, resistance, resistance, collecting, human
Analyzes three articles about criminal justice research from "Voices from the Field: Readings in Criminal Justice Research " by Pope, Lovell and Brandl (Ed.).
Abstract This paper examines the sampling techniques presented in three articles from "Voices from the Field: Readings in Criminal Justice Research " by Pope, Lovell and Brandl (Ed.). In each article, the author compares the sampling process to the optimal technique for the purpose of the study and analyzes the representativeness of the population from which it was drawn. The articles are 'Heavy Metal Music Preference, Delinquent Friends, Social Control, and Delinquency' by Singer and Levine, 'Collective and Normative Features of Gang Violence' by S. Decker and 'A Badge and a Baccalaureate' by R. Warden. The paper concludes that sampling is critical to the reliability of the study.
From the Paper "The first article is 'Heavy Metal Music Preference, Delinquent Friends, Social Control, and Delinquency'. The population used was public and private senior high school students in a large, New York suburban community. Using school board lists, 1,475 students were sampled. Of this number, interviews were completed with 705 youths. This study used proportionate sampling as its sampling technique. Crucial to this type of sampling is that the study specified the probability that any given element is included."
Tags: optimal reliability, senior high school students, active gang members, cluster sampling
