Perceived Evidence-Based Practice Competency Acquisition in Graduate Nursing Students: Impact of Intentional Course Design

Background: Acquisition of evidence-based practice (EBP) competencies in graduate-level nursing programs bridges the research-practice gap in professional practice. This study evaluated the impact of the Star Model of Knowledge Transformation as a framework for course design on graduate-level nursing students' perceived EBP competencies. Method: Data were collected from 2012 to 2017 (N = 544). Repeated-measures ANOVA was used to analyze pre- and postassessment data over time. Data were collected for each of the five stages or Star Points of EBP competencies. Results: Significant postcourse improvement in perceived EBP competencies was demonstrated (p <= .000) for all Star Points and years. The greatest pre- and postassessment percentage change occurred in the Translation Star Point scores and the least percentage change occurred in Discovery. Conclusion: These data support the use of intentional course design based on a recognized EBP model to improve perceived EBP competencies in Master of Science in Nursing students.