PT7005 - Research Methods for Practice (2026/27)
| Module specification | Module approved to run in 2026/27 | |||||||||||||||
| Module title | Research Methods for Practice | |||||||||||||||
| Module level | Masters (07) | |||||||||||||||
| Credit rating for module | 20 | |||||||||||||||
| School | School of Human Sciences | |||||||||||||||
| Total study hours | 200 | |||||||||||||||
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| Running in 2026/27(Please note that module timeslots are subject to change) |
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Module summary
This module provides opportunities for students to consolidate and extend their research knowledge & skills to be critical users of research for evidence-based practice. It will provide students with the opportunity to utilise sound scientific understanding and to interrogate research databases to identify relevant and appropriate evidence to answer clinical questions. The module covers practical skills and tools for critical analysis of qualitative and quantitative research methodologies used in service quality improvement and clinical research.
Lectures will be utilised to introduce principles of research methodologies, frameworks, application to practice, and critical appraisal tools. This will provide a foundation for evidence synthesis, where students will apply this knowledge to critically appraise research papers in order to identify answers for clinical questions.
In addition, the module introduces students to methods of discipline-specific data analysis using computer software, therefore, students will be supported to achieve a specific level of competence relating to theory, analysis and interpretation of data.
Prior learning requirements
NA
Available for Study Abroad? No
Syllabus
The indicative syllabus covers a comprehensive range of topics essential for understanding and conducting research within the field of practice. It begins with an appraisal of the sources of knowledge and the underlying epistemology, followed by an exploration of the relationship between knowledge, research, theory, and practice. Students will examine theories and paradigms of research and learn how to review literature critically, analysing existing research to inform their own inquiries (LO1). The syllabus also addresses the generation of new knowledge through research, starting with the development of research questions and hypotheses, and includes guidance on creating a systematic literature search (LO1).
Further, it introduces different research approaches - both quantitative and qualitative - alongside appropriate designs and data analysis methods for various research questions (LO1). Learners will study methods of data collection and sample selection, as well as principles of information governance to ensure the safe and effective use of health and social care information. Key concepts such as reliability, validity, and applicability of research results are emphasized, alongside ethical considerations and the role of local research ethics committees.
The syllabus also incorporates statistical analysis of data generated through research and the use of basic software packages for data analysis (LO2). Students will explore levels of evidence and critical appraisal tools, including risk of bias assessments and tools such as CASP and PEDro (LO1). Finally, the module covers the presentation, analysis, and interpretation of data (LO2), equipping learners with the skills to communicate research findings effectively.
Balance of independent study and scheduled teaching activity
The teaching approach will consist of lectures, guided study, specialist skills training sessions, small group seminars and IT-based practicals. Directed study is provided in the form of practice statistical problems and analyses, as well as literature searching tasks.
Learning outcomes
At the end of this module, students will be able to:
1. Critically evaluate qualitative and/or quantitative research for evidence-based practice using recognised critical appraisal tools
2. Identify appropriate statistical tests for a given dataset, critically evaluate statistical test methods and interpret the output of these tests