Abstract
This teaching and learning resource was developed to support Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) students in understanding the foundational steps of building a DNP scholarly project. Many DNP students are enrolled in fully online programs and frequently report feeling overwhelmed by the volume of required readings and the complexity of project-related expectations. As a result, students may struggle to conceptualize how individual course assignments connect to the overall DNP project trajectory. This instructional video was designed to provide a clear, structured overview of the DNP project development process while offering an engaging alternative to text-heavy resources.
The video presents a sequential overview of key components of the DNP project, including identification of a practice-focused problem within a defined setting, use of evidence to establish best practice, completion of a gap analysis, selection of an appropriate theoretical or quality improvement framework, development of project aims, and dissemination. Emphasis is placed on clarity, consistency, and practical application, with examples that illustrate how each step builds upon the previous one. Although comprehensive in content, the material is intentionally delivered in a light, approachable, and engaging manner to reduce cognitive overload and support student attention and comprehension.
This teaching resource is designed for asynchronous use within DNP programs and is intended to supplement existing course materials and faculty instruction. It may be used across multiple courses to reinforce consistent expectations and support student learning at various stages of project development. By combining comprehensive content with an accessible and engaging delivery style, this resource supports learner engagement, promotes self-directed learning, and enhances student confidence in navigating doctoral-level practice scholarship.
Sigma Membership
Non-member
Type
Presentation - Webinar
Format Type
Video Recording
Study Design/Type
Other
Research Approach
Other
Keywords:
Nursing Education, Doctoral Students, Curriculum, DNP Projects, DNP Project Steps
Recommended Citation
Harmon, Donna, "DNP Project Steps" (2026). General Submissions: Academic Settings and Education-based Materials. 51.
https://www.sigmarepository.org/general_submissions_asem/51
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Rights Holder
All rights reserved by the author(s) and/or publisher(s) listed in this item record unless relinquished in whole or part by a rights notation or a Creative Commons License present in this item record. All permission requests should be directed accordingly and not to the Sigma Repository. All submitting authors or publishers have affirmed that when using material in their work where they do not own copyright, they have obtained permission of the copyright holder prior to submission and the rights holder has been acknowledged as necessary.
Review Type
None: Submitted for Open Dissemination
Acquisition
Self-submission
Date of Issue
2026-02-06
Full Text of Presentation
wf_yes
Description
Video Length: Approximately 8 minutesÂ