5.1.2 Learning about research by doing it: Setting up an interdisciplinary research forum, experiences in one hospital (46)

Tim Clark, Senior Lecturer, Adult Nursing Studies, Canterbury Christ Church University, Canterbury, United Kingdom

Abstract:

Whilst the traditional route for commencing research studies has been through undergraduate degrees, this possibility appears have reduced following the introduction of research governance arrangements (DH, 2005). With most research now being carried out at post graduate level or above, some interested staff now feel less able to develop their own research ideas. Following involvement in one hospital’s Research Committee, two members, set up an interdisciplinary Research and Development Forum. This forum is a collaborative venture involving staff at the hospital and university to ‘promote, develop and support research activities’ in the hospital. Some of the initial members had interest but very limited experience of actual research methods, so the initial plan was to identify appropriate potential problems, select one that was feasible and prepare a proposal for consideration by the Hospital Research Committee. This presentation identifies the processes in the forum’s development from the initial idea to approval of the first study. This study is an interdisciplinary randomised controlled trial of the effects of intra-operative Dexamethasone in children undergoing dental extraction under general anaesthetic. Whilst this study is on-going, examples from the study will be used to demonstrate how the forum identified and managed some of the difficulties encountered. Problem based learning has been used to effect in medical and nursing curricula (Wilkie and Burns, 2003) and this approach was modified as a useful lever to increase motivation, enhance the research culture and develop focused researching skills. Whilst it is not possible to generalise to all settings, some useful lessons can be drawn and the staff involved have gained valuable skills and increasing confidence in their ability to generate and utilise evidence for their practice.

Biography:

Tim has many years experience as a clinical nurse, educator and researcher. He completed his PhD in 2005 and is keen to develop research activities both in his university department and in local service providers. Following involvement in a hospital Research Ethics Committee he developed a interdisciplinary research forum to promote research awareness and provide support for those wishing to complete a piece of research.