Nursing students’ perceptions of research: usefulness, implementation and training

AIMS: The present study explored students' perceptions of the usefulness of research for nursing practice; beliefs about difficulties in implementing research on the wards; and finally, their satisfaction with the research training received. BACKGROUND: Anecdotal reports of nursing students' dislike of research. METHOD: Recruiting preregistration students for the present study was the first obstacle, and so the sample size remained small, consisting of 12 students. Semi-structured interviews were conducted and later transcribed. RESULTS: The findings indicated that resistance, both by students and by qualified nurses, was a recurring issue. Several students disagreed with the training and expressed a need for more practical experience. CONCLUSIONS: Overall, the present study suggests that educational and organizational improvements need to be introduced to transform nursing into a research-active profession.