Research Education for Students

At NWHSU, we train our students in “information mastery”, equipping them with the skills needed to identify, interpret, and integrate the latest scientific evidence with patient preferences and their own clinical expertise in the context of care.

We have identified nine EIP competencies for its students which are addressed in the Foundations of Evidence-Informed Practice courses and in other courses throughout program curricula.

We also hope to stimulate students’ interest in research and to create pathways for interested individuals to pursue research careers. 

Evidence informed practice competencies

  1. Define Evidence-Informed Practice (EIP) and discuss its importance in health delivery
  2. Describe fundamental principles of research
  3. Describe non-research forms of healthcare evidence and information
  4. Critically appraise different forms of evidence
  5. Discuss the importance of research in one’s discipline, and its current status
  6. Efficiently find evidence-informed answers to specific questions
  7. Effectively apply relevant research evidence in practice in conjunction with patient preferences and clinical expertise
  8. Effectively use EIP to communicate with patients, other healthcare providers, third-party payers and others.
  9. Effectively participate in research in one’s field

Foundations of Evidence-Informed Practice courses

A course in Foundation of Evidence-Informed Practice is part of the required curriculum for students enrolled in NWHSU’s chiropractic, acupuncture and Chinese medicine, and massage therapy programs.

Each course uses a blended approach of classroom and online presentations and activities to introduce students to the basic principles of Evidence-Informed Practice (EIP). EIP, also commonly referred to as evidence-informed or evidence-based healthcare, integrates clinical findings, patient preferences, research and clinical experience into the process of healthcare delivery. Students learn the strengths and limitations of each element of the model and how to use them together to enhance clinical decision-making and patient outcomes.

Practical research experience for students

NWHSU has a long history of engaging students interested in research with practical, hands-on opportunities to experience designing and conducting research. We make every attempt to connect individuals with opportunities tailored to their experience, interests, and availability. Over 50 students have participated in research at NWHSU under the supervision of seasoned scientists, with many of these going on to secure research fellowships and pursue careers conducting research.