Facilitating the Integration of Theory, Practice and Research in Nursing Education: A Look at One Graduate Program

Abstract

If the integration of nursing theory, practice and research is to be a reality, it is important that it be fostered in nursing education. This paper explores how the Graduate Department of Nursing, University of Toronto, which is committed to this integration, attempts to facilitate it in its Master's Program. THE MASTER'S PROGRAM The Master's Program in the Department of Nursing is built on the philosophy of the Faculty and specific beliefs regarding graduate education. The "Goals of Graduate Education" and "Expectations of the Graduate of the Master's Program" reflect the philosophy of the program, and indicate the anticipated integration of theory, practice and research. (See appended Figure 1). The program enables students to develop depth of knowledge and special expertise in an area of clinical practice and to contribute to the refinement of knowledge through research.