Research Showcase Abstracts
Explore abstracts from CFDR’s annual research showcase at the DC Conference.
Year
2022
Category
Research
Language
English
Names, Organizational Affiliations, and Locations of all Authors (2022 and Later)
A. Bromley1 & J. Brady2
1Department of Applied Human Nutrition, Mount Saint Vincent University, Halifax, NS
2School of Nutrition and Dietetics, Acadia University, Wolfville, NS
1Department of Applied Human Nutrition, Mount Saint Vincent University, Halifax, NS
2School of Nutrition and Dietetics, Acadia University, Wolfville, NS
Title
What do we mean by evidence-based?: Qualitative Publishing in the Canadian Journal of Dietetic Practice and Research
Introduction/Purpose
Qualitative research is essential to elucidating the complex role that food plays in the health and well-being of all Canadians, and is thus, a necessary complement to quantitative research. However, dietetic-scholars have raised concerns about the lack of understanding, regard for, and theoretical rigour of qualitative research published in the Canadian dietetic literature, which may limit the availability and quality of qualitative research available to Canadian dietitians.
Objective(s)/Process or Summary of Content
To evaluate the qualitative research publishing record and the use of appropriate theoretical frameworks in Canadian dietetic literature.
Method(s)/Systemic Approach Used
A content analysis of all articles published in the last ten years (2012-2021) by the Canadian Journal of Dietetic Research and Practice (CJDRP) was conducted. Quantitative (i.e., number of articles per year) and qualitative (i.e., methodology, method, and theoretical framework used) data were collected and analyzed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis respectively.
Results/Conclusions
Between 2012 and 2021, 28.5% of all articles published in the CJDPR used qualitative methods; an additional 12.1% used mixed-methods and 1.5% used arts-based methods. Per year, an average 15.0% of the articles published in the CJDRP used qualitative methods. Few articles were theoretically informed.
Conclusions(s)/Recommendations
Overall, qualitative research is underrepresented in CJDPR. Theoretically informed qualitative research, in particular, is lacking. Efforts to enhance the conduct and publishing of qualitative research may be needed to ensure that high quality qualitative research is available to Canadian dietitians.
Significance to Dietetics
Qualitative research is essential to establishing a robust evidence base, which is fundamental to evidence-informed dietetic practice.
Funded by
Jennifer Brady’s research fund at Acadia University
