40%
Due 10-16-06

Options

For many years this assignment was group work.  Some students did not like group work.  Last year we tried it as individual work.  Then some wished it was group work!  So this year I am giving you a semi option.

Your discussion groups can choose either option 1: Individual 2: group.  All in the group must choose the same option.  I do not want to create another set of groups.  You must make your choice no later than Discussion 1 and include your group choice in your Discussion 1 summary.

Introduction to the Theory Critique Assignment

Review:

1. Parker, 2006, chapter 2

2. McEwen & Wills, 2007, chapter 5

3. Fawcett reading

Choose a theory from McEwen & Wills Chapter 11, Table 11-1, 11-2, 11-3, Chapter 12 or chapter 15.

Your critique is to be presented in outline format using the required headings shown below. The outline is single-spaced and generally will be from 3-5 pages. Outlines are submitted to the instructor as an email attachment.

Requirements

A. Background (10 points)

Theory/Author Name and Background

1. Give the name of the theory and give crucial references for the original and/or current work of the theorist and other authors writing about the theory. Describe the theorist's background as much as possible and how it impacted the theory development. (5 points)
2. Describe the theory in your own words. What phenomenon of concern or problems are addressed by the theory (5 points)

B. Theory Description (50 points)

1. Development - How was the theory developed?  Explain whether it is induction, deduction, or retroduction. Give evidence for your judgment. (5 points)
2. Concepts - What are the major concepts of the theory? How are they defined? (theoretically and/or operationally) Is the author consistent in the use of the concepts and other terms in the theory? (10 points)
3. Propositions - Identify the relationships (propositions) among the major concepts (15 points).
4. Diagram - Provide a diagram including all concepts. (20 point)

C. Evaluation (25 points)

1. Assumptions -
   1. List explicit and implicit assumptions (values/beliefs) underlying the theory. Provide sources for explicit assumptions. (5 points)
   2. What world view does the theorist or theory reflect - per Fawcett chapter 1, tables 1-4 & 1-5? Support your judgment with examples. Discuss the assumptions related to the dominant world view the theorist holds. (5 points)
2. Metaparadigm - If critiquing a nursing theory, does it have a description of the four metaparadigm concepts of nursing and how are they explained in the theory? If it is a non-nursing theory, what metaparadigm elements do you see as relevant to the theory and why? (5 points)
3. Clarity - How clear is the theory? Did it have lucidness and consistency? Address semantic and structural clarity and consistency (see McEwen & Wills) (5 points)
4. Congruence - Explain/discuss the logical congruence of the internal structure of the theory. (5 points)

D. Application (15 points)

1. Level - What level best reflects this theory, i.e. describe, explain, predict, and/or control (prescribe)? How would the theory guide nursing actions? (5 points)
2. Use - Describe specifically how you can use this theory in your area of nursing (Practice, Education, or Administration). Keep in mind that some theories are not at a level that allows higher level functions such as prediction or control. (5 points)
3. Future - Is this a theory for the future? Explain your response. (5 points)