This module is designed for any health professional who wishes to develop an understanding of research paradigms, and research methodologies and methods commonly encountered within healthcare. You should be a qualified health care professional currently working in an appropriate area of practice.   

The aim of the course is to enable you to understand different research methodologies and the application of a range of research techniques. It also aims to develop your knowledge and skills required to plan, design, conduct and present research.  

You will participate in examination of quantitative and qualitative methodologies, and critical analysis and evaluation of published literature, in order to develop your knowledge and diversify skills.   

Key strands of research methods that will be explored in depth include:

 • The aims, processes and terminologies associated with research approaches.  

 • Research paradigms and their relevance.  

 • Information retrieval, literature searches and challenges.   

• Qualitative, quantitative and mixed methods research methodologies and methods.  

 • The role of ethics and governance approval committees.  

 • Systematic critiquing of research publications and their relevance for clinical practice.  

Students will typically:  

1. Develop critical knowledge and understanding of the philosophical issues and methodological approaches in research.  

2. Develop an understanding of principles and procedures of ethics and governance associated with research.  

3. Critically articulate the purpose and context of research and the basis for selecting appropriate research methodology and designs.  

4. Critically review and appraise published research.