Practitioner-researchers are emerging in many fields in response to rapid change and a view of research as systematic and rigorously controlled learning. The gap between theory and practice widens because of variations in practice settings, making practitioner knowledge important. Commentaries by Paul Yerrell, David R. Thompson, Philip Burnard,…

Deconstruction of three British nursing research projects found that, due to a "Utopian" perspective, they reintroduce theory-practice gaps they sought to close. Future nursing research should avoid idealistic prescriptions and promote more skeptical and realistic approaches. (SK)

MTutor is a web-based online tutorial that provides a nursing research problem, online resources, multiple-choice questions, and an evaluation survey. Student nurses (n=60) found it easy to use and felt that it reinforced classroom learning and enhanced their understanding of research design. (SK)

Discusses the potential of focus groups to address balance of power and empowerment issues in nursing research. Explains the need to involve diverse stakeholders in curriculum development, student evaluation, and appraisals of students' perceptions of their experiences. (Contains 52 references.) (SK)

Nursing students used a research module either in self-study groups (n=6) or class sessions (n=6). There were few differences in knowledge or attitudes. Overall, the ratings were higher for those in the taught class rather than self-study. (SK)

Data collected from 72 Hong Kong nursing students before and after a research methods course revealed a significant increase in research orientation and improvements in research knowledge and skills. Positive attitudes toward research at the beginning did not change. (SK)

Masters-level students in nursing education in Finland were assigned to study groups, each of which planned and implemented a course. Group work was videotaped and analyzed, revealing issues for teacher education related to the integration of research, education, and nursing practice and to conflicts over planning approaches. (SK)