The idea for this assignment is to introduce each student to the processes of critical analysis and objective

1.The idea for this assignment is to introduce each student to the processes of critical analysis and objective evaluation of peer-reviewed research by using critique standards to determine the merits of research for use in clinical decision-making and practice. Please note that a critique is not a summary of the research article. Instead, a critique is a critical, balanced evaluation or appraisal of the research report. Grading for this assignment will reflect evidence that the student understands this distinction. Two critiques are required in this course. The first critique is limited (i.e., starting with the title and covering all components up to literature review). The second (comprehensive) critique should cover all components of the study.
2.The critique should be:
a.No longer than two (2) pages in length for the first critique (not including the cover page or the reference page)
b.No longer than three (3) pages for the second critique (not including the cover page or the reference page)
c.Typed, doubled-spaced using font as identified in APA format (6th ed. only)
d.Margins all around per APA format (6th ed. only)
e.Attach a photocopy of the article with the critique
f.Attach your grading rubric with the critique
Note: Points will be subtracted for papers greater than the specified length limits.
3.The critique should demonstrate comprehension, analysis, and evaluation of the article you have chosen. It is important to use critical reading skills (Read at least four times: skim for preliminary understanding, then read for comprehensive understanding, read for analysis, and read again for evaluation). In addition, use your textbook for critiquing criteria (Chapter 14; pages 194 195 and 239; further, critiquing guides for the various components of a study can be found in other areas of the text and handouts provided).
4.Plan and write your critique. Write your critique in standard essay format. Use the authors organization or the organization used in your text when critiquing each component of the research report. Begin with an introduction that provides the title of the article and defines the subject of your critique and your point of view. Defend your point of view by providing specific strengths and/or weaknesses of each component or section of the study. Conclude your critique by summarizing your arguments regarding the merits (or lack of merits) of the research and your opinion about the using this research to change, alter or maintain a clinical practice activity.
5.Remember, the goal of this assignment is to develop critical analytical and evaluative skills. See me about questions or thoughts you have about this assignment as early and as often as you need.