Developing nurse educators’ research capacity in a resource-constrained environment

Abstract

Despite concerted efforts through policy reforms, research training, and mentorship programmes, nursing research capacity remains low. This is particularly troublesome in resource -restrained environments. We launched an experiential and collaborative research capacity development programme with nurse educators at a university of technology.  A Participatory Action Research approach was followed. This communication reports on the first two one-day cycles of the pilot programme at the main campus. Ten participants were divided into three small groups. In the first cycle, participants produced drawings of their research experience and research pathway while the second cycle concentrated on a collaborative data analysis session with a remix of the original team members. The programme had a positive impact on an inter-and intrapersonal level, as well as facilitating the acquisition of research skills of nurse educators. The programme can be enhanced through similar virtual exercises at remote campuses.