Assignment Task: Article Critique
DNP graduates are expected to apply research findings and integrate nursing science into evidence-based practice. To develop your skills in this high level of nursing practice, you will analyze the strengths and weaknesses of a research study over the next several weeks using the concepts presented throughout the course. Your final analysis will be a 5- to 7-page paper that includes the following:
- A brief, 1- to 2-paragraph overview of the quantitative study that you selected. For the purpose of this assignment the article cannot be a systematic review. Review the Walden University library information on a systematic review
- An explanation of two to three strengths of the study and support for your selection (i.e., why is this a strength). Be specific.
- An explanation of 2-3 weaknesses of the study and support for your selection (i.e., why is this a weakness). Be specific.
- Note: The strengths and weaknesses that you identified should be in relation to design, sampling, data collection, statistical analysis, results, and discussion of the study that you selected.
- An explanation of proposed changes you would recommend to improve the quality of the this quantitative study, capitalizing on the strengths and improving on the weaknesses that you identified in the study. Be specific and provide examples.
- A final summary of the implications of this study for nursing practice.
The purpose of the analysis is to help you develop a deeper understanding of the research process, to inspire you to think critically and deeply about research on a specific topic, and to strengthen your ability to integrate research findings into evidence-based nursing practice. This Assignment also gives you practice in analyzing the research literature, which will support you when you begin your DNP project. Before you proceed, please review the rubric for this Assignment.
The Assignment: (5-7 PAGES)
1. Select a quantitative research article from the body of literature that you have reviewed related to the practice gap that you have identified and for which you will develop for your DNP Project.
2. Review the various quantitative research designs presented in the textbook readings and research articles.
3. Consider the research design used in your selected article. Ask yourself the following questions:
o Is the design appropriate for the study? Why or why not?
o Would a different design provide better results? Why or why not?