Prerequisites for Module
None, in addition to course entry requirements.
Corequisite Modules
None.
Precluded Modules
None.
Aims of Module
To increase awareness of the importance of qualitative and quantitative research.
To develop student's ability to critically analyse research methods and critically review literature.
Learning Outcomes for Module
On completion of this module, students are expected to be able to:
| 1. |
Systematically gather, synthesise and appraise the literature to develop and support a specific research question.
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| 2. |
Integrate and relate discriminative understanding of research methodologies to the critical analysis of research articles in a relevant area.
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| 3. |
Critically engage with the ethical implications in the relevant research field.
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| 4. |
Develop skills for data handling and statistical analysis relevant to the analysis of data generated in the research project.
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Indicative Module Content
Type of research (analytical, descriptive, experimental and quantitative). Sampling procedure, reliability and validity. Develop the research problem: identify a topic area, devise specific questions, review the literature, determine feasible ways to answer the questions. Ethics. Data handling and statistical analysis.
| Indicative Student Workload
Contact Hours
| Full Time | Part Time | Lectures
| 10 | 10 | Tutorials
| 10 | 10 |
Directed Study
| | |
| 60 | 60 |
Private Study
| | |
| 70 | 70 |
Mode of Delivery
Blended learning. Delivery will be based on formal lectures, workshops, problem solving and supported by on-line material, discussion forum and activities.
Assessment Plan
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Learning Outcomes Assessed
| | Component 1 | 1,2,3,4
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A fully developed research proposal which provides an extended literature review, suitable for peer publication, discusses the choice of methodology and outlines the project schedule.
Indicative Bibliography
| 1. | Davies, M.B., 2007. Doing a successful research project: using qualitative or quantitative methods. Basingstoke: Palgrave Macmillan.
| | 2. | Derenzo, E.G. and Moss, J., 2006. Writing clinical research protocols: ethical considerations.Elsevier Academic Press.
| | 3. | Hart, C., 2003. Doing a literature review. London: Sage Publications.
| | 4. | Holmes, D., 2006. Research methods in the biosciences. Oxford: Oxford University Press.
| | 5. | Current journals and research articles
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