Intended Learning Outcomes
By the end of the module you will:
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1.Evaluate alternative methodological approaches to research tasks and justify design choices referring to appropriate methods and socio-cultural contexts
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2.Gain an advanced understanding of the theoretical underpinning of selected research methods in common use in health related research; appreciate the ethical implications of the NHS Research Governance initiative and the need to incorporate then in research plans
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3.Understand how to build key elements of survey and sample design and qualitative and quantitative data acquisition into project designs
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4.Acquire skills in non-intrusive, observational, interview, questionnaire and visual research methods
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5.Be equipped to undertake quantitative and qualitative data handling and computer aided statistical and qualitative data analysis.
Indicative Module Content
The module will provide a theoretical, methodological and practical foundation for the typical tasks a health researcher would have to undertake. This includes general research theories and approaches, design options, methodologies, project planning, fieldwork preparation and data analysis. You will cover a range of research methodologies and link this with problem appraisal and appropriate design choices. You will design measures and other data acquisition tools and practise a range of skills including data collection techniques and analysis of numerical and verbal/ textual data. The course will cover computer based methods of statistical analysis and presentation and computer based methods for organising and analysing more qualitative forms of data.
Assessment
Research Proposal (50%)
This assignment requires you to develop research proposal identifying key research questions, select and justify research methods and consider ethical issues related to your proposal.
Reflective, Analytical Report (50%)
For this assignment you will reflect upon your proposal to carry out a small scale pilot study examining the ethical, practical and technical issues raised during the study.
