Introduction
Evaluation of theory is an essential element in competent work in nursing. This process involves researching the theory, identifying its features, and characteristics, and working with conclusions about its usefulness. The evaluation of the theory highlights its strengths and weaknesses, as well as whether the approach needs further development or not. Testability and contribution to understanding were selected as two criteria that could provide the most valuable and meaningful information. Using materials from the book Theoretical Basis for nursing by McEwen and Wills, it is clear why these criteria are significant in theory evaluation.
Testability
Main body
I selected these criteria because, using the method of testability, one can yield essential conclusions regarding the practical application of the theory. By testing it in practice, identifying various aspects of its activities, and analyzing the strengths and weaknesses of the theory, it is possible to draw the ultimate conclusion about its usefulness or harm. According to Chen et al. (2020), “the criterion of testability for middle-range theories may be met, for example, when specific instruments or experimental protocols have been developed to observe the concepts” (p. 12). This approach will provide more information about the features of the theory.
Contribution to Understanding
The Contribution to Understanding method provides a better understanding of the theory’s intended impact on existing data. As INTRAC (2017) states, “Contribution analysis is designed to be used alongside theories of change that explicitly set out how change is, or was, supposed to be.” (p. 1). Hence, using the Contribution to Understanding during the evaluation of the theory criterion, essential conclusions can be drawn as to how theory changes from phase to phase of the application.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it should be emphasized that the chosen criteria for evaluating the theory, such as Testability and Contribution to Understanding, are meaningful for determining essential aspects of the theory. While testability will help to highlight the functioning of the theory by testing its features in practice, the contribution to understanding criterion will highlight the supposed influence of the theory.
References
Chen, M., Hauser, H., Rheingans, P., & Scheuermann, G. (2020). Foundations of data visualization. Springer Nature.
McEwen, M., & Wills, E. M. (2019). Theoretical basis for nursing (5th ed.). LWW.
INTRAC. (2017). Contribution analysis. M&E Universe. Web.