The role of physical design and informal communication

2.1 Research Design
CHAPTER 2
METHODS
This was an exploratory case study designed to examine the ways in which the
built environment affects opportunities for interaction, informal learning, and the
exchange of knowledge and information. Additionally, the impact of this type of
informal communication on graduate nurse job stress and competency level was
explored. The study was conducted during the graduate nurse formal orientation
program. During this time, information on graduate nurse interaction patterns, stress
levels, and competency levels were obtained using five different data collection
methods including: systematic observation of communication and interaction patterns,
survey, self-recorded blood pressure, competency ratings, and focused interviews.
2.2 Site Selection
Crouse Hospital was selected for a number of reasons. The genuine interest of
the hospital administrators and nursing unit managers in participating in academic
research was of utmost importance, and without their support the study would not
have been possible. In addition, the hospital featured conventional nursing unit
design, providing a good example of the kind of spaces in which graduate nurses often
begin their careers. Finally, Crouse Hospital was chosen for its practicality. Located
only 54 miles from Ithaca, it was relatively convenient to commute to and from the
site for data collection.
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