Faculty Research Spotlight

Dr. Amelia Perez's scholarship initiatives focus on integrating innovative educational methods into nursing curricula and addressing pressing global health issues. Key projects include a longitudinal study on Human Trafficking Education for undergraduate nursing students through virtual simulation, and an investigation into the effectiveness of virtual simulation in enhancing knowledge and active learning in nursing pathophysiology.
Additional initiatives include assessments of preceptor and clinical faculty knowledge, as well as exploring student perceptions in mass casualty simulations and implementing water filters in rural Guatemala to combat malnutrition. The research interests are broad, encompassing education and simulation, health promotion, clinical practice, and global health issues, reflecting a commitment to advancing nursing education and community health.
Participation in significant grant-funded projects includes: 1. A study on the impact of water filter distribution and education on child malnutrition in Guatemala, supported by the SIUE School of Nursing Faculty Scholar Award. 2. The NEPQR-CFPA Program aimed at enhancing nurse education and retention with substantial funding from the U.S. Health Resources and Services Administration. 3. The NEPQR-MHTP initiative focuses on mobile health training programs.
Recent publications highlight critical findings in community nursing, telehealth, and the development of health promotion programs, with articles appearing in peer-reviewed journals and presentations scheduled at notable nursing conferences. These efforts collectively aim to improve nursing education and practice, foster community partnerships, and address health disparities. Her latest publication is: Perez, A., Sobczak, B., Jennings, G., & Cooley, T. (2025, in press). Engaging nursing students in community partnerships: Development of a health promotion program. Journal of Nursing Education.