Online Journal of Knowledge Synthesis Introduction
The Online Journal of Knowledge Synthesis for Nursing (OJKSN) represents a pioneering effort in the realm of nursing scholarship. Established by Sigma Theta Tau International in January 1994, it was the first peer-reviewed electronic journal in nursing. This journal is entirely digital, marking a significant shift from traditional print formats to a fully electronic platform. The OJKSN aims to synthesize and disseminate crucial knowledge that supports nursing practice and research, thereby advancing the field of nursing through accessible and timely information.
Purposes of Journal Publishing
The primary purpose of the OJKSN is to provide a platform for publishing synthesized knowledge that can guide both nursing practice and research. Knowledge synthesis involves the comprehensive gathering of research studies on a particular topic, evaluating the validity of these findings, and deriving implications for practice based on the evidence. This process also includes identifying gaps in the existing knowledge base that can inform future research endeavors.
OJKSN’s focus is not on reporting single studies, which is common in other nursing research journals. Instead, it offers critical reviews of research that are pertinent to clinical practice and research situations. This approach enables nurses to access consolidated and high-quality evidence that can be immediately applied to their practice.
Online Access
The OJKSN is accessible exclusively online, delivering its content via the Internet to various devices such as computer terminals and personal computers. This digital format allows for seamless and widespread dissemination of information. The journal can be accessed through Sigma Theta Tau International’s website, and subscriptions can be obtained either individually or institutionally. Additionally, a combined subscription with the Registry of Nursing Research is available, providing a comprehensive resource for nursing professionals.
Components of an Article
Each article published in the OJKSN is structured to provide a thorough understanding of the topic at hand. The key components of an article include:
- Statement of the Practice Problem Issue: This section outlines the scope of the article and provides a clear context for the research discussed.
- Summary of the Research: Here, the article presents a review, analysis, and synthesis of the research on the topic. This summary serves as a state-of-the-science report, evaluating the breadth and depth of research available. Unlike traditional literature reviews, this summary assesses the validity of the information and may include meta-analysis, a statistical technique that combines results from multiple studies.
- Annotated Critical References: This section includes summaries of the most significant research publications relevant to the topic. A maximum of seven references are annotated, offering detailed insights into the key studies.
- Practice Implications: The implications for practice based on the research are discussed here. This section provides actionable recommendations for practitioners and outlines what changes or actions should be taken as a result of the research findings.
- Research Needed: This part addresses the directions for future research and identifies gaps in the current knowledge. It helps guide the development of master’s theses, doctoral dissertations, and clinical research studies.
- Search Strategies: This section describes how the research was identified, including the citation bases searched, search terms used, and the time period covered. It provides transparency in the research process and allows readers to understand how the evidence was gathered.
- References: All cited references are listed in American Psychological Association (APA) format. Hypertext links to full citations, including abstracts, are provided for ease of access.
Statement of the Practice Problem Issue
The “Statement of the Practice Problem Issue” provides a concise explanation of the article’s focus. It clarifies the specific practice problem being addressed and sets the stage for the subsequent analysis. This section is crucial as it helps readers understand the relevance and importance of the research topic.
The “Summary of the Research” presents a detailed review and synthesis of the available research. This review goes beyond a mere literature summary by critically assessing the validity of the research findings. It may include meta-analysis to provide a comprehensive view of the evidence. The use of tables and narrative summaries helps in illustrating key findings and variables.
Advantages of Online Journals
The transition to online journals offers numerous advantages:
- Faster Publication: Online journals can publish articles much faster than traditional print journals. Once a manuscript is accepted and revised, it can be published online within weeks, compared to the 6 to 24 months it might take for print journals.
- Immediate Access: Readers can access articles instantly upon publication. This immediacy is crucial for keeping up with the latest research and applying new knowledge to practice without delay.
- Continuous Publication: Online journals often use continuous publication models, meaning articles are published as soon as they are ready rather than waiting for a specific issue. This model ensures that the most current research is always available.
- Hypertext Links: Online journals can include hyperlinks to related resources, databases, and references. This feature enhances the utility of the journal by allowing readers to access additional information and resources directly from the article.
- 24/7 Availability: Online journals are accessible at any time, from anywhere in the world. This round-the-clock availability facilitates easier access for researchers, practitioners, and students.
Disadvantages of Online Journals
Despite their benefits, online journals also have some disadvantages:
- Continuous Publication Model: Unlike traditional journals that are published in distinct issues, online journals typically use continuous publication. This model can make it challenging to locate specific articles or track the publication history of the journal.
- Citation Standards: As online publishing is relatively new, uniform standards for citing electronic publications are still being developed. This lack of standardization can lead to inconsistencies in how online sources are cited.
- Dependence on Technology: Access to online journals requires reliable internet access and appropriate technology. This dependence on technology can be a barrier for individuals in regions with limited internet connectivity or technological resources.
- Digital Divide: There is a risk of exacerbating the digital divide, where those with less access to technology may be disadvantaged in accessing the latest research. This issue highlights the need for equitable access to online resources.
- Information Overload: The vast amount of information available online can lead to information overload. Readers may find it challenging to sift through the volume of material to find relevant and high-quality research.
Subscription and Access
Subscribing to the OJKSN is straightforward and can be done through Sigma Theta Tau International’s website. Subscription options include individual and institutional subscriptions, catering to both personal and organizational needs. Additionally, the journal offers a combined subscription with the Registry of Nursing Research, providing a broader range of resources for nursing professionals.
Upon processing a subscription, users receive a user guide, authorization, and a password. This access allows them to explore the wealth of knowledge available in the journal, facilitating evidence-based practice and research.
Conclusion
The Online Journal of Knowledge Synthesis for Nursing (OJKSN) is a trailblazer in the realm of nursing scholarship, offering a digital platform for disseminating synthesized knowledge. Its focus on providing critical reviews of research and actionable practice implications supports the advancement of nursing practice and research. While online journals offer significant advantages, such as faster publication and immediate access, they also present challenges related to citation standards and technology dependence.
Overall, the OJKSN enhances nursing’s opportunities for knowledge-based practice, education, and research. By offering a platform for timely and relevant information, it supports the ongoing development of nursing practice and contributes to the advancement of the field.