Nursing students' perceptions of research: usefulness, implementation and training

Aims. The present study explored students' perceptions of the usefulness of research for nursing practice; beliefs about difficulties in implementing research on the wards; and finally, their satisfaction with the research training received. Background. Anecdotal reports of nursing students' dislike of research. Method. Recruiting preregistration students for the present study was the first obstacle, and so the sample size remained small, consisting of 12 students. Semi-structured interviews were conducted and later transcribed. Results. The findings indicated that resistance, both by students and by qualified nurses, was a recurring issue. Several students disagreed with the training and expressed a need for more practical experience. Conclusions. Overall, the present study suggests that educational and organizational improvements need to be introduced to transform nursing into a research-active profession.