Deck 14: Critiquing Research Reports

Question 1

Distinguish between a research critique and research review.

Answer 1

Nursing research:
Nursing research is a systematic process that is used to investigate or examine the problems to improve knowledge of nurses about care provided by them.
Difference between research critique and research review:
Research critique:
A research critique is the process of appraising the strengths and weaknesses of a report in nursing research. It also helps to determine the overall applicability of research findings. It is unrealistic and difficult to complete.
Research review:
A research review is the process of summarizing the major points mentioned in the research report. It is explained by considering various aspects of the research study.

Question 2

Apply principles that make a critique constructive rather than destructive.

Answer 2

The following are the principles that make a critique constructive :
• Usage of strong phrases and words in research critique is important feature of sensitive criticism.
• Whenever possible, positive terms should be used and commence commenting on a study's overall strengths.
• Avoid terms such as "nice", "bad", or "good" because, these words will not produce any specific information.
Example: "the paragraph contains good review on nursing". This statement does not convey any information. Instead it can be written as, "the paragraph determines the important factors linked with rural pursing behavior and practices".

Question 3

Apply principles that make a critique constructive rather than destructive.

Answer 3

The following are the set of guidelines in the critique of a research report:
Do's:
• Individual should convey sincere interest to study the critiquing.
• The person should be conscious about the negative attitude towards certain approach to science or any private hostilities that will distort the ability to judge a study on their own merits.
• Critiques should have a clear and concise communication.
• Valid explanation and comment should be justified while pointing out the study's weakness.
• When warranted, encouraging and supportive comments should be given.
• Practical suggestions are used over unrealistic or esoteric.
Don't:
• The critique should not demean an investigator personally.
• The person should write the critique in patronizing, condescending, or condemning language.
• The critique should not forget the objective that is; to advise the researchers to improve the study work and nursing science at large.
• The critique should not try to comprise flattery that is designed merely to improve a researcher's self esteem.