SCHOOL OF NURSING

Models of Capstone Projects:
A Conversation
Terri E. Weaver, PhD, RN, FAAN
Professor and Dean
University of Illinois at Chicago College of Nursing
© Weaver, 2012

Jane M. Kirkpatrick, PhD, MSN, RNC-OB
Head, School of Nursing
Associate Dean, College of Health and Human Sciences
Purdue University

Objectives for this session
 Discuss the intent and scope of the DNP capstone scholarly project:
– Differentiating from the PhD thesis
– How the project demonstrates competencies

 Determine similarities and differences among multiple forms of DNP projects/capstones in terms of scope and expected deliverables
 Examine the issues that surround the DNP project/capstone If it Walks Like a Duck and Talks Like a
Duck – Is it a capstone project?
 An endeavor by any other name: capstone, practice inquiry, scholarly project focused on practice  May benefit group, population, or community
(NONPF, 2007)

 Scholarly work that translates (is implemented) evidence into practice
– Sustainability

(Ahmed, et al., 2013)

AACN description of DNP project
“Rather than a knowledge-generating research effort, the student in a practice focused program generally carries out a practice applicationoriented “final DNP project,” which is an integral part of the integrative practice experience (AACN, 2006, p.3)

Project possibilities (NONPF, 2006)
 Translate research into practice
 Quality improvement (care processes, patient outcomes)
 Implement and evaluate evidence based practice guidelines  Analyze policy: Develop, implement, evaluate, or revise policy  Design and use databases to retrieve information for decision making, planning, evaluation
 Conduct financial analyses to compare care models and potential cost savings, etc.
 Implement and evaluate innovative uses of technology to enhance/evaluate care