Authorised by Academic Registrar, April 1996
Objectives On completion of the subject the students are expected to situate nursing within an historical context; identify the key concepts, values and orientations that characterise nursing as practice discipline; describe the multiple ways of developing nursing knowledge; explore the conceptualisation of scientific knowledge and its place in establishment of the discipline of nursing; reflect on personal values and experiences as an important source of knowledge for nursing; examine socio-political issues, such as gender and medical dominance, and their impact on nursing; discuss and debate contemporary discipline issues, such as cross-cultural care, professional standards and industrial issues.
Synopsis This subject introduces philosophical and theoretical perspectives on nursing. The subject traces the emergence of nursing as a discipline, and discusses and debates the influences on the development of nursing knowledge. The paths for shaping a future for nursing in our society are explored, and the subject examines the role professional bodies and organisations play in shaping that future.
Assessment Poster session: 30% + Essay: 70%