Page 107 - Encyclopedia of Nursing Research

74 n CoLLABoRATIvE RESEARCH

assignments, and outcomes are enhanced that assist them to become “educated, self-
because of minimal team members, similar reliant citizens capable of making decisions
C educational backgrounds, and complimen- regarding their own future . . .” (p. 186). The
tary skill sets. literature reflects several robust and success-
This traditional model is foundational for ful projects of this nature (Foster & Stanek,
progressing to boarder collaborative research 2007; Minkler, vasquez, Chang, & Miller,
between academics and health care agencies. 2008; Story et al., 2010). Story et al. (2010)
Examples of this type of research model is emphasized the utilization of this model in
well documented in the reports of Allam et al. addressing marginalized and vulnerable
(2004), Gaskill et al. (2003), McCann (2007), populations where lack of trust has often
McCloughen and o’Brien (2006), and Paton prevailed and bridging the gap between the
et al. (2004). Clear and frequent communica- “outsider and the insider” (p. 117). Shoultz
tion, identification of roles and expectations, et al. (2006) provided a comprehensive review
agreement on a decision-making process, of challenges that might be experienced
and support of parent organizations of the when implementing community-based par-
team members are imperative in promoting ticipatory research and provide suggestions
the success (McCloughen & o’Brien, 2006). for proactively addressing these issues.
Additionally, Gaskill et al. (2003) suggested A final model involves broadening of
that the partnership between the academic any of the previously discussed models to
and the practice sites be entered into with the include international partners. Melkers and
understanding that longevity will be needed Kiopa (2010) documented the professional
to build a milieu of trust, collegiality, and growth of all members involved in interna-
sustainability for this research relationship. tional collaborative research project. Jones,
Finally, Allam et al. (2004) documented the Wilson, Carter, and Jester (2009) provided a
inclusion of clients into this model and the thorough discussion of the benefits and chal-
strength this addition brings to the research lenges to consider in developing a successful
design, implementation, and outcomes. international research team.
Hospital-based research led by nurse The attributes offered through successful
executives and involving all levels of nurs- collaborative research become more appar-
ing service began to be noted in the liter- ent as expectations call for research that is
ature as magnet status for hospitals was of the highest quality, financially savvy, and
established during the mid to late 1980s capable of producing credible and applicable
(Kramer & Shcmalenberg, 2005). The empha- outcomes. To maximize the potential of col-
sis of achieving magnet status has led to laborative research, research partners should
increased specificity of research skills by all establish clear communication guidelines,
nurses affiliated with hospital organizations team goals, outcomes, role expectations, and
that have or are seeking to gain magnet sta- methods to work with the organizational
tus. Further, this change in hospital culture powers and cultures. To ensure maximum
has led to increased collaborative research effectiveness, collaborative teams should
within hospital organizations, streamlining routinely evaluate the research process
of research dollars, and increased dissemi- (McCann, 2007; McCoughen & o’Brien, 2006).
nation of research findings. Happell (2010) highlights methods to ensure
The most inclusive collaborative research that each team member maintains ownership
model is that of community-based partici- of their contributions to the research project
patory research, which involves academics, and encourages a written document that
practice, and community members. Corcega verifies the following key elements: member
(1992) stated that the strength of this model names with indentified expertise and orga-
is the empowerment of community members nizational affiliation, roles, determination