Theories of Practice; What is a theory?

Theories of Practice

What is a theory?

Theory can be defined as “one or more relatively concrete and specific concepts that are derived from a conceptual model, the propositions that narrowly describe those concepts, and the propositions that state relatively concrete and specific relations between two or more concepts” (Butts & Rich, 2018, p. 101).

Theory is a hypothesis tested and measured to explain, predict, describe, and prescribe relationships between concepts and is developed through quantitative research.

The difference between a model and a theory is the amount of proof that exists in demonstrating the outcomes they predict. Both models and theories show relationships between concepts.

Directions

In this assignment, you will locate a grand and middle-range nursing theory and examine the utility of your chosen theories for guiding research and practice.

You will locate one grand nursing theory and one middle-range nursing theory applied in a research study. You will examine how each theory was applied within the research study and then analyze the utility of grand and middle-range nursing theories to advance the discipline of nursing and its impact upon your advanced nursing practice.

Assignment Details

For this Assignment, your paper must be 2 to 4 pages, not including the title and reference pages.

To view the Grading Rubric for this Assignment, please visit the Grading Rubrics section of the Course Resources.

Assignment Requirements

Before finalizing your work, you should:

Minimum requirement of at least five sources of support
be sure to read the Assignment description carefully (as displayed above);
consult the Grading Rubric (under the Course Resources) to make sure you have included everything necessary; and
utilize spelling and grammar check to minimize errors.
Your writing Assignment should:

follow the conventions of Standard English (correct grammar, punctuation, etc.);
be well ordered, logical, and unified, as well as original and insightful;
display superior content, organization, style, and mechanics; and
use APA 6th Edition