Use of theory in every day life and work situations (Discussion begins 9-14-06)
On your own, brainstorm on all of the theories you can think of that you use in your everyday life and at work. List them as they come to mind and then share when you meet with fellow students in the threaded discussion on September 14, 2006. Use Parker chapter 2 questions to guide this discussion.
Review and discuss any difficulties or questions/comments on study questions and terminology from Unit I during threaded discussion on September 14, 2006. Again, you are not graded on the study questions and terminology, but rather they are meant to support your independent reading and study. Since we do not have the classroom setting for lecture and discussion, this interaction and discussion during your thread discussion is very important. This type of activity facilitates divergent and critical thinking, very important elements of graduate education.
Review Theory Critique Options.
Make your group choice and include it in the discussion summary.
Ethics in theory building and application exercise. (Discussion begins 9-28-06)
Ethics is defined in Mosby's Medical, Nursing, and Allied Health Dictionary (3rd ed., 1990) as "the science or study of moral values or principles, including ideals of autonomy, beneficence, and justice" (p. 444). Ethics in clinical practice is associated with the "should" or "ought to be" of patient care. Ethics in theory building is associated with the assumptions and values (world views) upon which a theory is built and in our practice discipline ultimately translates into nursing actions that can impact the patient (Reed, 1989, p. 2). Read the chapter by Grace on moral obligations related to philosophies, models, and theories of nursing and Reed article theorizing as an ethical endeavor. Discuss the ethical dimensions of theory building and application as you understand it on 9-28-06, during Threaded Discussion #2. Also discuss your concept analysis exercise.