Reflecting on 'meaningful research': a qualitative secondary analysis

Abstract

Reflection on 'meaning' and 'meaningful research' led the researchers to further explore data obtained in an original study which aimed to develop a strategy to improve the contribution of nurses towards health research. The purpose of this further exploration, using a qualitative secondary analysis, was to explore and describe what important stakeholders in research, as well as nurses, see as meaningful research. It was expected that this analysis might contribute to refine the strategy and shed light on how research can be communicated to nurses as a more meaningful activity. The original data sets, namely 28 lists of open-ended questions and eight transcripts of focus group interviews, were analysed, using content analysis. The results show that there are similarities, but differing emphasis, between the viewpoints of the mentioned stakeholders and nurses. It is recommended that stakeholders in research, including nurses, need to establish and work in respectful, supportive, research capacity building partnerships when conducting research. Following this approach might lead to research being understood and experienced by nurses as a meaningful activity.