Nursing research is a course that I was initially intimidated by because of its unfamiliarity. I never really understood that research was such a large part of what helps shape and refine the nursing practice that is necessary in today's health care environment. I had heard of evidence-based practice (EBP), but I never really knew where the evidence came from or how it was generated.

As the course continued on, I learned about qualitative and quantitative research methods. I learned how to assess research articles and studies, both singly and on a larger "literature review" scale. The assigned text had lots of hints and tips about searching research databases, which I feel will be useful as I continue my education. In fact, this is one of the textbooks that I purchased instead of renting because I feel it will remain a valuable tool.

The main assignment in this course was a large research project. I enjoyed this project, and I feel that one of the main reasons I genuinely enjoyed the course was because I chose to formulate my project around something I am extremely passionate about.
The assigned project focused on one idea, essentially, a "research proposal". Each of us was tasked with having our own individual idea and thinking it through each stage of the research process. I feel that I was able to apply the concepts of research to this project in a concrete way because I was able to have ownership of my ideas and imagine how I would attempt to complete my chosen study.

I was able to think critically about: the problem I selected, the purpose of my research, the problem's significance to nursing, and the potential theoretical framework to base my research on. As I wrote my research proposal, I used the skills described in the text to research my problem and evaluate the research I discovered in a systematic way.

I enjoyed designing my research study because it gave me a chance to think creatively about how I would go about delving into the actual research if I were to complete the study. I chose a phenomenological research design because I find lived experiences and stories about people's experiences more interesting than numerical data. I was able to explore innovative ways that I could collect and analyze data. Every aspect of a research proposal was included in this comprehensive project including ethical considerations.

Overall, I feel I learned a great deal about research and its importance to the nursing profession. As a result of this class, I now feel I have learned how to conceptualize, plan, and execute a complete nursing research study. I enjoyed my research experience and hope I get to use this knowledge as I continue to pursue my higher education.