Module overview
In this module you will carry out an independent research project. This module will provide you with the opportunity to plan, undertake and report on an independent, original project which is relevant to your future area of practice.
Aims and Objectives
Learning Outcomes
Learning Outcomes
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Justify the conclusions and implications for your profession with well-reasoned arguments.
- Use appropriate methodologies to collect data appropriate to the aims of the project.
- Rationalise the selection of the specific problem or issue by systematic searching and critical appraisal of the relevant literature.
- Demonstrate adherence to relevant ethical and governance requirements.
- Analyse, interpret, and synthesise data critically and appropriately to address the aims of the project.
- Demonstrate the ability to disseminate your work.
Syllabus
The module comprises of 10 hours of lectures and 5 three-hour research group seminars. The lectures and seminars prepare students for the range of skills required to undertake their independent research project. Supervisors will offer 5 further hours of 1-1 support.
You will achieve the learning outcomes of this module through one of three routes.
1.An evidence based project
2.A qualitative or quantitative project (subject to relevant approvals and feasibility).
3.A secondary data analysis project (subject to relevant approvals and feasibility).
Students will be able to undertake an empirical research project ONLY when the project is demonstrated to be feasible.
Learning and Teaching
Teaching and learning methods
This module requires completion of an independent research project facilitating learning in relation to subject topic and research methods (practical and theoretical).
| Type | Hours |
|---|---|
| Project supervision | 5 |
| Seminar | 15 |
| Lecture | 10 |
| Independent Study | 534.5 |
| Total study time | 564.5 |
Resources & Reading list
Textbooks
Boland, A, Cherry, MG and Dickson, R (2017). Doing a systematic review: a student's guide. London: Sage.
Green J and Thorogood N (2018). Qualitative Methods for Health Research. London: Sage Publications Ltd.
Walker D-M (Ed) (2014). An Introduction to Health Services Research. A practical guide.. London: Sage.
Bettany-Saltikov, J (2016). How to Do a Systematic Literature Review in Nursing: A Step-by-step Guide. London: Open University Press.
Purssell, E and McCrae, N (2020). How to Perform a Systematic Literature Review: A Guide for Healthcare Researchers, Practitioners and Students. SpringerLink (E-book).
Curtis, E and Drennan J (2013). Quantitative Health Research: Issues and Methods. New York: Open University Press.
Assessment
Assessment strategy
You will complete an independent research project, and this will be assessed through the submission of a written paper of up to 5000 words, laid out in the same format of a peer reviewed journal of your choice, supported by a project file. The project file will evidence the detail of the processes you have followed to complete your project.
You must achieve mark of at least 50% in the written paper in order to pass the module. Your overall module mark will then be calculated from the mark awarded to the written paper (60% weighting) and the project file (40% weighting).
Formative
This is how we’ll give you feedback as you are learning. It is not a formal test or exam.
Project plan
- Assessment Type: Formative
- Feedback: You will receive verbal feedback from the group seminar lead and peers in your seminar group.
- Final Assessment: No
- Group Work: No
Summative
This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Written paper | 60% |
| Comprehensive Project File | 40% |
Referral
This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Comprehensive Project File | 40% |
| Written paper | 60% |
Repeat Information
Repeat type: External