Thesis (Ph. D.)--University of Technology, Sydney, 2006.

The purpose of this research was to evaluate the extent to which graduates from the Bachelor of Nursing (BN) program at the University of Technology, Sydney were adequately prepared for the nursing role in the current Australian health care system. This question was examined by adapting the illuminative evaluation method developed by Parlett and Hamilton (1977), and a meta-evaluation is provided of the model that was developed. Data were gathered from academic staff, clinical facilitators, curriculum and clinical experts and students. Course mileau and documentation were also assessed. The results indicate that graduates from the BN were adequately prepared to fulfil the nursing role. However, during the research a number of critical issues emerged which led to the development of an alternative model of curriculum. Although the conclusions support the continuance of a generic preparatory course, a number of changes to the course are recommended and two areas of future research identified. The first relates to exploring the depth, breadth and extent of knowledge that is required of a beginning registered nurse. The second involves evaluating the curriculum changes proposed here to assess whether this model is able to achieve improved outcomes in graduates / Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)