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Learning Objective 1: Recognize tools that assist in conducting nursing research,using the comparison to a recipe
Learning Objective 2: Explain the steps used to develop nursing research by building a cake from a recipe
By applying the analogy of baking a cake to the nursing research process, the intention of the workshop was to have an interactive and fun way of educating and exciting nurses about nursing research. The instructors utilized PowerPoint Slides and the “Piece of Cake” workbook to provide the content. Recipe ingredients for testing of various hypotheses and measurement/mixing utensils were provided at the start of class. During breaks, teams of 3-5 class participants agreed upon a research question, then designed, implemented and analyzed a mock research study using a pre-selected recipe. The recipe was altered by the individual teams in order to answer their research question (protocol written). For example, if a team wanted to study the taste preference of a recipe made with artificial sweeteners versus natural sweeteners/sugar, they would design their study with the only variable being the type of sweeteners.
In conjunction to providing the class, research was also conducted on the workshop itself. Class participants were consented prior to class, and pre- and post- class surveys were completed by the participants to measure their understanding of the research process, excitement about nursing research, and willingness to participate in nursing research in the future. Data showed statistically significant positive changes after the workshop for all three categories studied.
In conclusion, use of a simulated, interactive research study through a workshop setting enhanced participant understanding, excitement, and willingness to participate in nursing research.