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Master of Science in Nursing at JMU

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BSN: Nursing Independent Studies Guidelines

Definition and Purpose:

An independent study is an out-of class, self-directed learning experience undertaken by a student with faculty guidance and supervision that provides opportunity for in-depth individual scholarly exploration. It can be an endeavor undertaken by one student or a group of students. Independent studies offer students the opportunity for exploring areas of personal interest in greater depth than is possible in the nursing courses within the curriculum. They also provide opportunity for developing responsibility in regard to scholarly pursuits and may be used to acquire elective credits or as a means of enhancing the student's academic program. Independent studies may include research or projects, as well as observational and practicum experiences. The primary responsibility rests with the student for making arrangements for any such experiences projected to be a part of the independent study, but consultation with the faculty member is required.

Faculty Role:

Considerable independence is required on the part of the student in planning for and implementing an independent study. It is an academic course and as such necessitates approval and evaluation by a faculty member. The faculty member exercises professional judgment in determining the adequacy and appropriateness of the proposal including its purposes, activities and evaluation. It is anticipated that the faculty will provide guidance in the development of the proposal and throughout its implementation.

Procedure:

While planning and evaluation must be done in conjunction with a faculty member, independent studies are primarily implemented in an independent manner. Objectives for the experience along with specific activities and methods of evaluation must be identified by the student and approved by the faculty member and department head. Independent studies may be done for varying amounts of credit but normally are for 1 or 2 credit hours. One credit hour involves approximately 45 hours of involvement on the part of the student. The steps in the process of setting up an independent study are outlined below:

  1. Student expresses interest to either the BSN Program Coordinator or a faculty member. The expectations are explained to the student. Permission to register for an independent study may be denied when in the opinion of the faculty member or department head, it is inappropriate in light of the student's overall performance or other program requirements.
  2. The student identifies a faculty member they would like to work with on the project and discusses their ideas for the project with them to determine their interest and willingness to serve as an advisor.
  3. In order to register for an independent study the student must secure a faculty member willing to work with them on the project. Faculty members have the right to decline requests for an independent study on the basis of their time constraints and other responsibilities.
  4. The student secures a copy of the guidelines and form for an independent study and develops a proposal for their study that includes all components as outlined. [Proposal Form]
  5. After completing the proposal a second meeting is held with the faculty advisor to secure approval. This discussion should include specific discussion of objectives, activities, means of evaluation, number of credits, etc.
  6. After receiving initial approval from the faculty advisor, the student completes the independent study proposal form. Approval is achieved through securing the signatures of the faculty member and the department head on the form. The signature of the faculty member means that she/he agrees to provide guidance to the student during the implementation of the independent study project. The department head's signature indicates approval of the plan as described. Copies of the signed form are given to the department head, the faculty advisor and the student. The student is responsible to keep a copy for his/her own record.
  7. An index number for the course is secured from the department head and then the student registers in the normal manner.
  8. The student and faculty advisor are expected to maintain contact regarding the implementation of the study periodically throughout the semester or summer. The responsibility for maintaining this contact lies with the student.
  9. The faculty member determines whether the study has been successfully completed and gives a grade accordingly.