Authorised by Academic Registrar, April 1996
Objectives It is anticipated that in undertaking this subject, students will be able to explore the philosophical underpinnings of human caring; critically evaluate theories of caring in nursing; evaluate research methodologies for studying caring in nursing; analyse personal accounts of the illness experience and caring; and critically reflect upon human caring in their own area of nursing practice.
Synopsis This subject examines in depth the notion that caring is a central component of nursing practice, theory and research. Theories of caring developed by Watson, Benner, Leininger and others are critically examined. Caring is viewed as being linked with socio-cultural values, politics, economics, spirituality, language, and, importantly, philosophy. Philosophical views are drawn from the existentialists, phenomenologists and feminists. The views of selected philosophers, such as Heidegger, are examined for the relevance of their ideas to a caring paradigm, and as a basis for methodologies for researching caring in nursing. Individuals; accounts of their illness experience, and their perception of nurses as carers are explored. Students will be encouraged to relate caring to human growth as a search for meaning and creativity. They will be expected to examine their own nursing practice by maintaining a personal/professional journal in order to develop the skills in critical reflection, argument and cognition which will enhance their role as carers.
Assessment Two assignments: 100%