module specification

DT6P01 - Dietetics and Nutrition Research Project (2024/25)

Module specification Module approved to run in 2024/25
Module title Dietetics and Nutrition Research Project
Module level Honours (06)
Credit rating for module 30
School School of Human Sciences
Total study hours 300
 
285 hours Guided independent study
15 hours Scheduled learning & teaching activities
Assessment components
Type Weighting Qualifying mark Description
Coursework 75% 35 Research paper (4000 words)
Coursework 25% 35 Supervisor's mark
Running in 2024/25

(Please note that module timeslots are subject to change)
Period Campus Day Time Module Leader
Year North Tuesday Morning

Module summary

The module aims to provide the learners with an opportunity to develop the skills of critical appraisal, interpretation, analysis, defending and reflection through the design and/or execution of a dietetics and nutrition-focused research project. 
In addition the module will develop advanced level knowledge of a specific area of the subject and allow learners to integrate the knowledge and skills acquired from other modules.
Learners will be able to develop skills in employability allowing the opportunity to demonstrate competence as independent learners, through the design and/or execution and completion of the research project.  
In addition the learner will experience the process of nutrition research and develop professional, vocational and transferable skills to perform and present independent research.  
Learners will  produce a substantive professional scientific report on the findings and present these findings, orally, in a scientific manner.
This module aims to provide learners with the qualities and transferable skills necessary for employment requiring: the exercise of initiative and personal responsibility; decision making in complex and unpredictable contexts; and, the learning ability needed to undertake appropriate further training of a professional or equivalent nature.

Prior learning requirements

Available for Study Abroad? NO

Syllabus

The specified learning outcomes will be developed around a framework based on the following subject matter:
Principles of research design, data management, statistical analysis and interpretation.
Research governance, research ethics (LO1,3,6).
Qualitative and quantitative research methodology (LO1,6).
Application of research to nutrition and dietetic practice (LO1,3,6).
Principles of scientific enquiry, evidence informed practice, critical appraisal of the literature, evaluation of practice (LO1,2,3,4,5,6).
Sources and grading of evidence, guidelines and systematic review and meta-analysis (LO2).
Scientific writing and communication skills (LO7)

Balance of independent study and scheduled teaching activity

This module will require the learner to self-direct and manage his/her own independent learning experience.
Research topics will be identified during the earlier part of the course through liaison with external health organisations or through research ideas developed by the learner or a member of academic staff.
Topics will be chosen that give the opportunity for learners to develop experience and
skills in research and provides a realistic opportunity of completion.
The module will be
delivered through a combination of tutorials (9 hours), project supervision (6 hours) and self-directed study 285 hrs.
Upon arrangement by the learner, the project supervisor will initially assist in the
following processes:
1) clarifying the terms of the research project
2) establishing a timetable for the research and dates for subsequent learner/supervisor meetings
3) directed background reading
4) study design, methodology, ethical approval (where necessary) and statistical
analysis
Supervisory support will form a key part of the teaching method, but ultimately, most of
the learning will be learner-centred. Supervisor meetings will continue periodically
through the project. A typical amount of contact time the learner can expect is six hours
with the supervisor. Each meeting will be logged and a summary of the outcome should
be signed by both parties using the on-line journal function within weblearn.

Learning outcomes

1) Demonstrate understanding of research methodology through the design and/or execution & completion of a research project or audit.
2) Critically appraise and review a body of relevant scientific literature.
3) Undertake appropriate analysis of original data, or reanalysis of current data.
4) Interpret ones owns findings in the context of current knowledge and literature.
5) Reflect on the design, execution, results and outcomes of the research project/audit in order to make recommendations for improvement.
6) Evaluate the impact or relevance of the research/audit on current professional practice.
7) Present the research study or audit in an accepted scientific manner, demonstrating appropriate presentation skills.

Bibliography