ACTION RESEARCH - A METHOD FOR PRACTITIONERS

Nursing research has frequently been criticized for its inability to s hape or be shaped by clinical practice. One method that involves clini cians and researchers in the pursuit of research and change is action research. The purpose of this paper is to present action research as a technique that combines grounded methods with organizational change t o enhance clinical practice, an approach widely used in Australia and England. The presentation includes the steps in action research. Examp les of nursing research conducted are also examined. The discussion fo cuses on techniques that enhance, maintain, or increase the scientific rigor of the methods.