This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeIntroduction, Thesis Statement, & Statement of the Problem• Presents the topic for the paper along with your position.
• Clearly defines the studies clinical problem or issue.
• Thesis coherently developed and maintained throughout.
• Note the significance of the problem in terms of the scope, severity and relevance of problem.
• Identify if the approach to addressing the clinical issue is effective.

5.0 pts

This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeIdentification of Hypothesis and/or Research Questions• Pinpoint the article’s hypothesis and/or research questions.
• Determine if the hypothesis and/or research questions proved true or disapproved. Explain the response in detail.
• Indicate if there are any objectives/aims to testing the hypothesis and/or research questions.

10.0 pts

This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeCritical Appraisal of the Studies Literature• Justify if the author synthesis literature relevant to the clinical problem or issue.
• Discuss the literature review provided by the author/s.
• Acknowledge any key discoveries, outcomes and patterns within the author/s’ literature review.

10.0 pts

This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeIdentification of Theoretical Framework• Name and describe the theoretical framework chosen by the author/s.
• Remark on the appropriateness of theory to the clinical problem.
o Does the theoretical framework specify key variables, assumptions and phenomenon of interest relating to the clinical problem?

5.0 pts

This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeResearch Design• Confirm whether or not the research design is appropriate to the research question.
• Review the methodology to determine if there are potential sources of bias.

5.0 pts

This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomePopulation and Sample• Record the sample population type and if the population is described sufficiently.
• List the sample size and if it is adequate. (i.e., was a power analysis used to estimate the sample size)
• Assess the selection criteria for acquiring the sample population.
• Provide information on the sample population inclusion and exclusion criteria.

10.0 pts

This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeProtection of Human Rights• Explain any conflicts of interest.
• Clarify the informed consent process and/or other ethical permissions for the research study.
• Disclose information on whether the autonomy and confidentiality of participants were met.
• Note whether the procedure were in place to safeguard the rights of study participants.
• Remark on whether the study minimized risks to study participants.

5.0 pts

This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeProcedures• Indicate if the intervention is described and implemented appropriately.
• Identify if research staff were trained properly to collect the data.

5.0 pts

This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeData Collection & Measurement• Examine the tools/instruments used in the study.
o Type of tool (i.e., questionnaire, observation, checklist, etc.)
o Validity and reliability of the tool.
o A listing of the data collected/measured by the tool.
o Are the tools/instrument described well and good choices to study the clinical problem?
• Specify the independent and dependent variables. Be sure to note which ones are being measured.
• Establish if the measurements (statistical data) is accurate and valid.
• Remark on the whether the measurements (statistical data) are relevant to the hypothesis and/or research questions.

10.0 pts

This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeData Analysis & Resultso Do the findings link back to the author/s’ literature review?
o Is the hypothesis and/or research questions supported by the findings?
o What are the strengths and weakness of the study?
o Are the findings adequately summarized, with good use of tables and figures?
o Are findings reported in a manner that facilitates a meta-analysis and with sufficient information needed for evidence-based practice?
o Are the results and/or study conclusions valid based on the data analysis?
• Implications for Practice
o Is the study generalizable to other population or can it be repeated in another study with similar results?
o Are there any recommendations for future research?
o Do the author/s discuss the study implications for clinical practice?

15.0 pts

This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomePersonal Reflection Should Answer the Following:• How does the article contribute to your understanding of research?
• Does the article change your views of the topic?
• What do you consider to be the strengths and weaknesses of the article?

5.0 pts

This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeFaculty Only – Title Page, Abstract & Paper Formatting• Meets the standards set by APA 7th edition.
• Abstract formatting is correct under APA 7th edition guidelines.
• Abstract is between 150-250 words and contains a keywords section.
• Abstract provides a brief synopsis of the paper, inclusive of the problem statement.
• No running header as noted for student papers under APA 7th edition.
• Correct use of level 1-4 headers as noted in the APA 7th edition manual.
• The paper has page numbers located in the upper right margin within the header section.

3.0 pts

This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeFaculty Only – In-text Citations & Reference Page• Uses sources effectively and documents sources accurately with minimal errors.
• Limits the use of direct quotes. Ideally, no more than 2 or 3.
• Meets reference requirements for assignment.
• Reference list is in correct format.

4.0 pts

This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeFaculty Only – Mechanics & Syntax• Well-developed sentence structure with minimal errors in punctuation, spelling or grammar.
• Appropriate margins and font.
• Correct application of research style format.
• Use of professional active voice writing rather than passive voice.
• Skillful use of language with varied, accurate vocabulary.

3.0 pts

This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeFaculty Only – Content Development & Organization• Provides a thorough explanation of key idea(s) at an appropriate level for the target audience.
• Demonstrates critical thinking with excellent understanding of the topic.
• Essentially the paper flows well, is easy to understand, and does not leave the audience with questions due to incomplete development.
• The paper is organized well with clear focus and excellent transition between paragraphs.
• There is a logical order to presentation of information.
• Paragraphs are well-organized by topic, not to lengthy, and easy to understand.

5.0 pts

Total Points: 100.0