Syllabus NGR 6803 EBP
Syllabus NGR 6803 EBP
Syllabus NGR 6803 EBP
Preparing 21st-Century Nurses to Promote Health and Wellness in Our Community and Around the World
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Information accurate assignments please check the modules each week on Canvas.
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The section may be changed to accommodate specific course
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*Welcome!
Welcome to the course! We are glad you are all in the course and are looking forward to getting to know you!
This course is integral for the preparation for the professional Advanced Practice Nursing role. It is one of the core
courses in the graduate program. This course will provide the necessary skills to critically appraise new knowledge
and integrate it in the clinical setting to inform evidence-based practice. You may wish to map these skills onto the
nationally-standardized career readiness competencies (see http://www.naceweb.org/career-
readiness/competencies/career-readiness-defined/ for details).
*Course Objectives
Analyze the status of research utilization and evidence-based practice in nursing.
Apply the steps of evidence-based practice.
Critically appraise appropriate knowledge for clinical decision making.
Evaluate evidence-based resources as support for decision making (i.e., introducing, disseminating,
modifying or rejecting a change in practice).
Appraise the readiness for adoption of evidence-based guidelines in a specific clinical setting, or
environment with attention to both individual and organizational components.
Critique the use of evidence-based practice guidelines in the clinical setting
Develop evidence-based practice plans pertinent to practice outcomes.
*Canvas: This course will be offered via USF's learning management system (LMS), Canvas. If you need help learning
how to perform various tasks related to this course or other courses being offered in Canvas, please view the
following videos or consult the Canvas help guides. You may also contact USF's IT department at (813) 974-1222 or
[email protected].
*Classroom Devices/Student Recording: This course or any portion of it may not be recorded.
Grading Criteria
College of Nursing Grading Scale
98-100=A+ 84-86=B 70-73=C-
94-97=A 80-83=B- 67-69=D+
90-93=A- 77-79=C+ 64-66=D
87-89=B+ 74-76=C 60-63=D-
Below 60=F
*Grading Categories and Weights
"Graduate students must earn the grade of ‘B’ or higher in each required course in their respective
nursing program. An unsatisfactory (‘U’) or any grade below a ‘B’ is not acceptable. All grades
including the final grade will not be rounded."
*Initial Assignments
All of the initial assignments are required to complete to be complete in the first week of the semester. The
mandatory attendance /syllabus quiz must be completed by Wednesday, August 26, 2020 in order to satisfy
the university’s mandatory first day attendance requirement. All other assignments must be completed by the
end of the first week to be able to start subsequent work in the course.
Writing Assignments
All written assignments and references associated with each assignment are to be typed and formatted
according to PublicationManual of the American Psychological Association (APA) format, the 7th edition. One
writing assignment will be ‘formative’ (not graded, but extensive feedback) to enable the student to revise and
submit a successful, well written paper.
*Grade Dissemination
Students will find annotations on their papers when they download the PDF of their graded assignments. Papers
will be returned within the week, and as soon as possible. The papers in this course build upon each other, so it is
expected that students revise text and APA as needed.
All assignments must be submitted by the deadline in the syllabus and in Canvas. No late assignments will be
accepted for this class unless it is communicated to the professor and agreed upon prior to the due date of that
assignment via the USF email system. In extenuating circumstances, extensions may be granted on a case-by-case
basis with verifiable documentation to support the extenuating circumstance at the discretion of the professor.
Discussion Board postings and replies should be completed in a timely manner as defined by the instructions in
order to provide a window of opportunity for online dialogue with other students in the class. There are no make-
ups or extensions allowed for discussion boards due to the interactive nature of the assignment.
Students who inadvertently submit an assignment incorrectly (e.g., submit the wrong paper or submit through the
wrong drop box in Canvas) should notify the professor via email immediately and no later than the due date for
the assignment so that arrangements for re-submission can be made. Students must verify that all assignments are
uploaded correctly.
Grades of “Incomplete”: The current university policy concerning incomplete grades will be followed in this course.
For USF Tampa graduate courses: An “I” grade may be awarded to a student only when a small portion of the
student’s work is incomplete and only when the student is otherwise earning a passing grade. The time limit for
removing the “I” is to be set by the instructor of the course. For undergraduate students, this time limit may not
exceed two academic semesters, whether or not the student is in residence, and/or graduation, whichever comes
first. For graduate students, this time limit may not exceed one academic semester. “I” grades not removed by the
end of the time limit will be changed to “IF” or “IU,” whichever is appropriate.
For USF Tampa graduate courses: An Incomplete grade ("I") is exceptional and granted at the instructor’s discretion
only when students are unable to complete course requirements due to illness or other circumstances beyond their
control. The course instructor and student must complete and sign the "I" Grade Contract Form that describes the
work to be completed, the date it is due, and the grade the student would earn factoring in a zero for all incomplete
assignments. The due date can be negotiated and extended by student/instructor as long as it does not exceed two
semesters for undergraduate courses and one semester for graduate courses from the original date grades were
due for that course. An "I" grade not cleared within the two semesters for undergraduate courses and one
semester for graduate courses (including summer semester) will revert to the grade noted on the contract.
Make-Up Exams Policy: Any questions or concerns regarding assignment due dates must be discussed with the
professor prior to the specific assignment’s due date and will be addressed on an individual basis. There are no
provisions for “extra credit” assignments for this course.
Withdrawals fall under the progression policy of the College. Progression policies can be found in the
Undergraduate Catalog as well as the Baccalaureate Program’s Student Handbook and the Graduate Catalog.
Withdrawal Policy (approved by CON Faculty Council 12/15/06; revised 1/19/07): Withdrawals are limited to 1 per
course, with a limit of 2 per undergraduate or graduate program. Withdrawals are defined as officially withdrawing
from any class after the Drop/Add period and before the final Withdrawal date as outlined in the Academic
Calendar. Any student withdrawing in excess of stated policy may be dismissed from the College of Nursing unless
the College of Nursing has pre-approved a documented Medical and/or Emergency situation.
Schedule Change Guidelines: The course schedule and calendar assignments and due dates are subject to change in
the event of extenuating circumstances. Any changes to the Course Schedule will be communicated through the
Announcements section in Canvas. Students should check frequently for new postings.
What to Expect of the Instructor: Learning is not something that can be passively acquired. Learn is an action
word. Learning is best facilitated through a collaborative and participative partnership between the student(s) and
the professor. Once the professor has provided the necessary resources, instructions and directions, the student
primarily determines student-learning outcomes. The professor is available for consultation and clarification to
support successful learning outcomes throughout the duration of the course. Students are encouraged to contact
the professor via USF email for questions and clarifications. Under discussions, we have created a student to
student section that is not faculty monitored. We have also created a student to faculty discussion section. If you
have a question, then other students probably have the same question. The faculty will respond to these discussion
Permission to use Lecture(s): The use or further distribution of the learning materials provided within Canvas,
beyond that normally associated with student learning, are prohibited.
Participation in this course may involve access to and/or the use of copyrighted materials that are used in
compliance with US Copyright Law. Under that law, materials may not be copied or distributed without permission.
Within the context of this course, they are to be used solely in support of instructional activities and their use shall
be limited to the duration of the course unless otherwise specified by the instructor or owner of the material.
Specific knowledge, skills, attitudes, habits, behaviors, and resources are prerequisite to student success in the
online learning environment and, accordingly, this course. Students should review the list outlined below, assess
their own strengths and opportunities for improvement, and develop a personal plan for ensuring satisfactory
performance and achievement as a student in the online environment.
Autonomy and independence: First and foremost, success in the online learning environment requires
self-motivation, a willingness to accept responsibility, discipline, and the ability to solve problems
effectively. Periodic technology glitches and failures are inherent to the online learning experience; online
students must be able to tolerate and use available resources to resolve these issues when they arise.
Time management: Online learning provides learners with unparalleled flexibility, but if you allow yourself
to fall behind in the required readings and/or activities you run the risk of not being able to catch up. In
addition, online learners often have many obligations beyond school (e.g. work, family, friends, social and
professional organizations, etc.). It is essential that students learn to balance multiple priorities and carve
out the time required to complete assigned readings and learning activities.
Written communication skills: Effective reading and writing skills are imperative to your success since most
of the communication that occurs in the online environment is achieved through writing. For this course, it
is particularly important that students carefully read and follow the instructions for each assignment. These
have been stratified in some detail in an effort to provide students with the information needed in order to
avoid an unnecessary loss of points. Likewise, make sure you review the evaluation rubric for each
assignment. Specific writing skills required for this course include the ability to compose and effectively
organize a written discussion; to apply APA style guidelines/rules; and to apply basic rules of writing
mechanics (e.g., grammar, syntax, sentence structure, punctuation, capitalization, etc.).
Technical skills: Computer skills and effective literature search skills are essential to your success.
Proficiency in the use of MS Word® is essential.
Technology and the right study environment: Online students must have access to a reliable computer
and printer. It may not be realistic to expect that you will be able to master relevant course content by
simply reading it on a computer screen so be prepared to print necessary/required reading materials.
Likewise, it is essential you have a private space that serves to minimize distractions and allow you to focus.
The learner is expected to demonstrate initiative in seeking learning experiences that will enable achievement of the
course objectives. It is expected that students will seek appropriate assistance when necessary from the professor for
the purpose of facilitating their learning. Completion of required readings and review of PowerPoint® presentations
and videos posted in Canvas are major learning activities for this course. Students should complete and study all
required readings/resource materials. The specific number of hours of class preparation will vary with each student
depending upon reading, comprehension, and writing abilities. Students experiencing difficulties are urged to
consult with their assigned academic advisor and/or the professor as early in the semester as possible so that
resources and support can be arranged. Students may seek assistance at the USF Counseling Center where many
programs and services are available.
Attendance Policy: Students must complete First Day Attendance requirements. Additional details regarding
assignment information can be found on the course schedule and specific instructions for completion can be found
in the Canvas course under the Assignments Link. Students should participate in the course 3-4 times per week,
approximately every other day. Students should communicate with faculty if they cannot meet these requirements
due to extenuating circumstances.
Professionalism Policy: Communication should always be professional with peers and faculty: The ONLY
accepted email is the USF email account. Students must obtain a USF email account immediately in order to send and
receive communication from faculty. It is suggested that students check their USF email and Canvas for
announcements at least 2-3 times per week. Emails generated through other systems will not be accepted. If the
student is having problems with the USF email account, he/she is expected to contact IT in order to resolve the
problem(s). There will be no exceptions. Per university policy and classroom etiquette; mobile phones, iPods, etc. must
be silenced during all classroom and lab lectures. Those not heeding this rule will be asked to leave the classroom/lab
immediately so as to not disrupt the learning environment. Please arrive on time for all class meetings. Students who
habitually disturb the class by talking, arriving late, etc., and have been warned may suffer a reduction in their final class
grade.
End of Semester Student Evaluations: Each student is asked to complete an end of the semester evaluation in
order to provide feedback to the University regarding the course. These surveys will be made available at the end of
the semester, and the University will notify you by email when the response window opens. Your participation is
highly encouraged and valued and all responses are collected anonymously.
Turnitin.com: The University of South Florida has an account with an automated plagiarism detection service
(Turnitin), which allows instructors and students to submit student assignments to be checked for plagiarism. I (the
instructor) reserve the right to 1) request that assignments be submitted as electronic files and 2) submit students’
assignments to Turnitin, or 3) request students to submit their assignments to Turnitin through myUSF.
Assignments are compared automatically with a database of journal articles, web articles, the internet and
previously submitted papers. The instructor receives a report showing exactly how a student’s paper was
plagiarized. For a more detailed look at this process visit http://www.turnitin.com.
Plagiarism will not be tolerated and is grounds for failure. For more information about Plagiarism visit:
Plagiarism tutorials: http://guides.lib.usf.edu/write/plagiarism
The Writing Studio: The Writing Studio is a free resource for USF undergraduate and graduate students. At the
Writing Studio, a trained writing consultant will work individually with you, at any point in the writing process from
brainstorming to editing. Appointments are recommended, but not required. For more information or to make an
appointment, visit https://www.usf.edu/undergrad/academic-success-center/writing-studio/ , stop by LIB 2nd Floor,
or call 813-974-8293. **Writing assistance is available in person on the USF Tampa campus or by telephone
appointments.
Institutional Policies
Policies about disability access, religious observances, academic integrity, academic grievances,
academic misconduct, sexual harassment and several other topics are governed by a central set of
policies, which apply to all classes at USF: https://www.usf.edu/provost/faculty-info/core-syllabus-
policy-statements.aspx
Covid-19 Procedures
All students must comply with university policies and posted signs regarding COVID-19 mitigation measures,
including wearing face coverings and maintaining social distancing. Failure to do so may result in dismissal from
class, referral to the Student Conduct Office, and possible removal from campus.
Additional details are available on the University’s Core Syllabus Policy Statements page:
https://www.usf.edu/provost/faculty/core-syllabus-policy-statements.aspx
In the event of an emergency, it may be necessary for USF to suspend normal operations. During this
time, USF may opt to continue delivery of instruction through methods that include, but are not limited
to: Learning Management System, online conferencing, email messaging, and/or an alternate schedule. It
is the responsibility of the student to monitor the Learning Management System for each class for course-
specific communication, and the main USF, College, and Department websites, emails, and MoBull
messages for important general information (USF System Policy 6-010). For additional guidance on
emergency protective actions and hazards that affect the University, please visit www.usf.edu/em
Library Resources
Citing Sources
APA Style https://academicwriter.apa.org/
The Owl at Purdue https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/research_and_citation/apa_style/apa_style_introduction.ht
APA Guidelines ml
*Course Schedule
Week
Topic Assignments Due Date Points
Module
1 Start here: Orientation & Check in Attendance/syllabus quiz 1/15/2021 3
Introduce Yourself 1/17/2021 0
2 The EBP Process CITI Training 1/17/2021 2
M1 **BBC #1 6-8pm 1/18/2021 2.5
DB: Utilizing EBP Process 1/20/2021 2.5
3 Developing a clinical question and search for PICOT Development Tool 1/24/2021 5
M2 evidence
4 Lit Search Strategy FORMATIVE 1/31/2021 0
5 Lit Search Strategy SUMMATIVE 2/7/2021 10
6 Critical appraisal of quantitative evidence Appraisal Tool & Summary Paper 2/14/2021 10
M3
7 Critical appraisal of qualitative evidence Appraisal Tool & Summary Paper 2/21/2021 10
M4
8 **BBC #2 question-6-8pm 2/22/2021 2.5
9 Critical appraisal of systematic reviews, meta- Appraisal Tool & Summary Paper 2/28/2021 10
M5 analysis and meta-synthesis evidence
10 Critical appraisal of clinical practice guidelines Appraisal Tool & Summary Paper 3/7/2021 10
M6 and other non-research evidence
Last Day to Withdraw March 27th,
2021
11 Translational and synthesis of evidenced for Literature Synthesis Summary 3/14/2021 15
M7 improving practice Table
12 Dissemination and implementation of evidenced Action Plan Discussion 3/21/2021 2.5
M8 to create change in the advance practice setting
13 3/28
Spring Break 4/12-18,
2021
14 EBP Presentation or Poster 4/19/2021 15
15 No Course Work Exam Week 4/26-4/30
16 Course Evaluation 5/2/2021
**These are synchronous, live sessions held at 6-8pm. They will be recorded if you cannot attend, or want to listen
again.
Please note: The information in this syllabus is subject to change, as needed, by the instructor. You will be notified of
any changes via an announcement on the course site or through an e-mail sent through canvas or to your USF
account. It is your responsibility to keep up with any changes.