Q-Methodology: An Alternative Design for Undergraduate Nursing Honors Research

Background: Undergraduate research is a high-impact educational practice that fosters deep learning. Study design is an important factor to consider when planning for student success. Method: Q-methodology uses statistical principles to study subjectivity and can be successfully used by undergraduate nursing students to build research skills and foster deep learning. Results: Authentic assessments evidencing attainment of the desired learning outcomes in student studies include well-written literature reviews, successful institutional review board submissions, completed projects, and dissemination of findings. Conclusion: Q-studies solve many design challenges faced by novice researchers leading to doable and meaningful undergraduate projects.