Master of Nursing

The learner must be able to specialise within a specific field of nursing at the level of a clinical nurse specialist and be able to apply critical analysis and problem solving techniques in the investigation of health related problems through research which will contribute to a scientific basis for nursing practice.

An approved Bachelor's level Degree. Conferment of status. Registered as a general nurse with the South African Nursing Council (SANC). Paid up membership of an association providing indemnity cover (internal requirements of some nursing departments).

The qualification, Master of Nursing, may be awarded to the learner who has provided evidence to the satisfaction of the assessors that the stated competence of the qualification as detailed in the specified outcomes, has been achieved, in whole or in part through the recognition of prior learning, which concept includes but is not limited to learning outcomes achieved through formal, informal and non-formal learning and work experience.

One

Critically review, analyse and apply the results of health and nursing related literature to their own investigation

1. Demonstrate knowledge of the scope of relevant knowledge in the selected field or area of investigation.
2. Analyse and apply results of health and nursing related literature to their own field or area of investigation.

Two

Conduct their own research, the results of which contribute to the scientific basis of the discipline of nursing.

1. Select the appropriate research paradigm (qualitative or quantitative and method for investigation.
2. Apply the scientific method correctly in the research process to solve a problem related to nursing.
3. Apply research tools effectively and correctly to the research process.

Three

Logically and critically develop, analyse and draw conclusions from the findings of the research.

1. Analyse the data logically.
2. Review the findings in relation to existing knowledge and critically draw conclusions.

Four

Communicate the results of the research in an acceptable manner, which will enhance the transfer of technology.

1. Apply relevant skills to communicate the results in written and oral form that will enable utilisation of the research by the profession.

Critical Outcomes embedded in the specified outcomes

These critical outcomes must be embedded within all learning or qualification programmes. Critical outcomes include but are not limited to:

1. Identifying and solving problems in which responses display that responsible decisions using critical and creative thinking have been made.
2. Working effectively with others as a member of a team, group, organisation, community.
3. Organising and managing oneself and one's activities responsibly and effectively.
4. Collecting, analysing, organising and critically evaluating information.
5. Communicating effectively using visual, mathematical and/or language skills in the modes of oral and/or written persuasion.
6. Using science and technology effectively and critically, showing responsibility towards the environment and health of others.
7. Demonstrating an understanding of the world as a set of related systems by recognizing that problem- solving contexts do not exist in isolation.
8. Contributing to the full personal development of each learner and the social and economic development of the society at large.

One

1. The listed and cited health and nursing related literature of the literature review and the exposition of the research reflect familiarity with relevant and recent findings and trends in technologies, techniques, models and theories in the field or area of investigation.
2. Models, principles, theories techniques, methodologies and results of health and nursing related literature are critically analysed and applied to their own field of research.

Two

1. The use of literature surveys/correlation/experimentation/causal analysis or appropriate qualitative research method is fully justified.
2. The research problem is clearly identified, defined and detailed in the research proposal.

• The stated questions, objectives or hypotheses direct the investigation to solve a nursing problem.
• The research is planned, conducted reported in accordance with sound ethical principles of research and professional values.
• The sampling strategy is planned and executed in a manner that aims to allow study findings, if appropriate, to be generalised to the population and to be attributed to the treatment/intervention variable.

1. Information sources are used correctly and appropriately and include a range of media.

• Information technology skills are applied effectively in information searches, data analyses, data presentation and the production of a dissertation.
• The appropriate narrative, mathematical and statistical analysis methods are applied correctly to quantitative and qualitative data.
• The quality of the data is evaluated in terms of validity and reliability in a manner that is consistent with the research paradigm.

Three

1. The inferences, interpretations and conclusions from measurements and statistical and narrative analyses are logical and juxtaposed with relevant models, principles, theories, techniques and methodologies of the field or area of investigation.

• Critical interpretation of data reflects the ability to evaluate contradictory findings of the study and challenge existing theories, models, principles, methodologies and techniques if indicated.

Four

1. Language and numeracy skills are applied effectively and correctly in communicating and defending the research problem, its investigation, outcome and recommendations.

• The results of the research are correctly explained in relation to existing knowledge in the field or area of investigation in a manner that will enhance utilisation of the research in practice and further research.

Integrated Aassessment

Continuous evaluation: (formative and summative evaluations): projects, individual and group; portfolios; learning diaries; tests; written and oral; oral presentations; clinical assessments; workplace assessments; simulations; panel assessments.