All health and social care professionals, particularly those working in Advanced Practice roles, need a critical understanding of how research relates to professional knowledge and practice. Research is generated and used by health professionals to maintain clinical currency and to deliver patient centred care safely. This module offers the student enhanced skills for generating, interpreting, and using the findings of professional research to apply to their practice. The module serves as an important foundation module for postgraduate students wishing to develop or change practice in the workplace, and for those progressing to dissertation. This module aims to ensure students have an in-depth knowledge and understanding of the research methods typically used in health and social care. Learning will be facilitated by online lectures and activities, seminars, tutorials, and participation in collaborative reflective learning which engages and challenges learners in the learning process through activities, not only inside but also outside the classroom.
Assessment comprises of two components:
1) A critical appraisal of a given mixed methods research paper using an adapted critical appraisal tool.
2) A written report, intended for the relevant Research Lead or appropriate other within the students’s area of practice, to outline the current methods and effectiveness of dissemination and implementation of research in the student’s area of practice area with recommendations for improvement.
Students will be informed that, in exceptional circumstances (e.g. global pandemics), plans for assessment may be subject to change. Contact will be made via the VLE and an e-mail will be sent to each of the apprentices, students and trainee advanced practitioners informing them of any changes that prove to be necessary. The Health and Life Sciences FAQSC will be informed in advance of any such changes, so that approval can be given.