module specification

SH6054 - Research Methods and Evaluation Skills (2022/23)

Module specification Module approved to run in 2022/23
Module status DELETED (This module is no longer running)
Module title Research Methods and Evaluation Skills
Module level Honours (06)
Credit rating for module 15
School School of Social Sciences and Professions
Total study hours 150
 
36 hours Scheduled learning & teaching activities
9 hours Assessment Preparation / Delivery
105 hours Guided independent study
Assessment components
Type Weighting Qualifying mark Description
Coursework 100%   A research project proposal 3,500 words
Running in 2022/23

(Please note that module timeslots are subject to change)
No instances running in the year

Module summary

 This module focuses upon the main research methodologies used in the study of health, preparing students for their own research projects as well as enabling them to read and critique the research of others. This module builds on a level 5 module (SH5000) and aims to further develop and enhance the research knowledge and skills addressed at level 5. Key issues related to user involvement within research will be considered within contemporary policy and political contexts.

Syllabus

 Students will be introduced to areas such as qualitative and quantitative research design and different approaches to research, alongside a range of methods used in health.   The module will also focus upon ethical considerations in relation to health research, and will devote time to looking at research that incorporates service users’ and practitioners’ perspectives.  Anti-oppressive practice and addressing diversity within research will also be considered.  The module will conclude with sessions on how to conduct a literature review and how to analyse and present data.  Throughout the module, students will be asked to critique published research using the method focused upon that week. All LO1-4

Balance of independent study and scheduled teaching activity

Theoretical input will be through seminars and workshops.  Students will also benefit from a blended learning approach through the use of Web Learn for supplementary materials, links to E-books, on-line discussions and self-assessment exercises such as reflective tasks.

Reflection and discussion are key to teaching for all students and will be in the context of tutor-led sessions and exercises incorporated into web-based materials. 

Teaching and learning strategies and methods also focus on workplace skills and professionalism.

This module is block-taught over the first 8-weeks of the semester.

Learning outcomes

 On successful completion of this module students will be able to:
1. Describe, analyse and constructively critique the major research methodologies used in the field of health
2. Apply ethics in relation to research
3. Demonstrate awareness of a range of research methods
4. Critique existing research related to  health

Assessment strategy

 A 3,500 word research proposal detailing a plan of study to explore a health topic relevant to the students area of study

Bibliography

 Bell, J. (2018) Doing your research project: a guide for first-time researchers in education, health and social science. 7th Ed. Maidenhead : McGraw-Hill, Open University Press
Bryman, A. (2008) Social Research Methods. 3rd Ed. Oxford: Oxford University Press
Gomm, R. (2008) Social research methodology: a critical introduction. 2nd Ed. Basingstoke: Palgrave Macmillan.
May, T (2011) Social Research: Issues, Methods and Process. 4th Ed. Maidenhead: Open University Press
Moule,P (2018). Making sense of research in nursing, health and social care. London:
Sage
Neuman, W. (2007) Basics of social research: qualitative and quantitative approaches. London: Pearson/Allyn and Bacon
Nazroo, J. (ed.) (2006) Health and social research in multiethnic societies. London: Routledge.
Patton, M. (2002) Qualitative research and evaluation methods. 3rd Ed. London: Sage
Punch, K.F. (2005) Introduction to social research: quantitative and qualitative approaches. 2nd Ed. London: Sage
Sapsford, R. (2006) Survey Research. 2nd Ed. London: Sage.
Sarantakos, S (2005) Social Research. 3rd Ed. Basingstoke: Palgrave Macmillan
Williams, M. (2003) Making sense of social research. London: Sage

On-line Resources
Sociological Research Online: www.socresonline.org.uk
Social Research Update: www.soc.surrey.ac.uk/SRU

E Books
Aveyard, H. (2010) Doing a literature review in health and social care: a practical guide. 2nd Ed. Maidenhead : McGraw-Hill/Open University Press
Denscombe, M. (2010) Ground rules for social research: guidelines for good practice. 2nd Ed. Maidenhead: Open University Press.
Iphofen, R. Ethical decision making in social research: a practical guide. Basingstoke: Palgrave Macmillan.
Reardon, D. (2006) Doing your undergraduate project. London: Sage.
Sheppard, M. (2004) Appraising and using social research in the human services: an introduction for social work and health professionals. London: Jessica Kingsley Publishers.

E Journals
Current Research Journal of Social Sciences
Evaluation Review: A Journal of Applied Social Research
Journal of International Social Research