This course focuses on quantitative research methods emphasizing skills required to systematically conduct research and evaluate current nursing knowledge to promote evidence-based nursing practice. There is an emphasis on articulating theory, academic writing skills, ethics, design, measurement, and data analysis in the context of specific research examples. Specific research techniques and data analysis procedures for the various design types are discussed and evaluated. The course also focuses on the evaluation and utilization of nursing research and evidence as it relates to changing and improving nursing practice, education, management, and health policy. The course culminates in the critiquing of research studies and the development of research proposals for clinical and applied applications.