Nursing as a “social programme”? A critical analysis of Theory-based Evaluation as a methodology to promote scientific progress in the research of complex nursing interventions
Research field: nursing science
Supervisor: Hanna Mayer
Intervention effectiveness research plays an essential role in knowledge production for an evidence-based and safe nursing practice. Despite a plethora of guidance available to develop and evaluate complex nursing interventions, it remains methodologically challenging. As an alternative to traditional research designs, theory-based evaluations (TBE) have been proposed as a promising way forward. TBE, however, is conceptually and methodologically demanding. The aim of this doctoral thesis is to conduct a critical analysis of TBE as a methodology to promote scientific progress in the research of complex nursing interventions. It poses the question whether nursing intervention can be conceptualized as a social programme, as premised in TBE. Furthermore, this thesis addresses the question of the programmatic nature of nursing, which is characterized by tacit knowledge. Moreover, this thesis attempts to explore how programme theory, the crux of TBE, can be constructed to be used as a heuristic device for the evaluation of nursing interventions. To answer the research questions, a methodological analysis will be conducted, by reconstructing research practices regarding complex nursing interventions, drawing on evidence from the literature as well as the candidate’s own research practice. This is followed by critical appraisal and suggestions for an improved nursing research practice.
