The module will be delivered via Blackboard and is organised around eight topics delivered sequentially over 9 weeks; 1. Nature of research and literature appraisal 2. Experimental design, sampling, data definition and statistics (2 weeks) 3. writing up, presenting your findings 4. Project management: ideas 5. Organizing teams and leaders 6. Planning and execution 7. Completion and evaluation 8. Case study examples and reflection. Each topic will begin with a tutor led introduction. This may be provided by video streamed lecture, PowerPoint presentation, Word document or other formats. You will have the opportunity to practice your skills by working on weekly tasks relevant to the topic. The tasks are designed to be carried out individually or in small on-line groups. Tutor guidance is given in the establishment of online group working. The assessment of the module will enable you to practise your skills and select a focus relevant to your specific clinical or pharmaceutical interests. The assessment consists of three parts; a written research project plan (50%) with accompanying PowerPoint presentation (20%) and a completed on-line team project, with reflection (30%).

Formative feedback will be given over the tasks associated with the module topics. Discussion between students will be encouraged allowing peer and tutor feedback to be given.
Summative: Research project design and plan (50%) (1,2) including a presentation (Powerpoint) summarising key features of proposed research (20%) (1,3)
Completion of team project including a written reflection (30%) (4)

PASS CRITERIA
Evidence of understanding of fundamental concepts. Able to represent plans and ideas in a coherent manner through a variety of different formats e.g. written, on-line discussion etc. Working beyond tutor given material with appropriate use of relevant procedures and examples.
Tasks completed satisfactorily.

MERIT CRITERIA
Showing breadth and depth of knowledge and understanding. Able to represent plans and ideas in an accurate, clear and coherent manner with appropriate supporting evidence. Good synthesis and evaluation. Tasks of overall good quality.

DISTINCTION CRITERIA
Substantial evidence of independent and critical thinking. Plans and ideas represented in accomplished manner with evaluation of conflicting arguments, conclusions presented and extensive and appropriate incorporation of primary literature. Innovation and creativity exposed where appropriate. Tasks comprehensively completed to a professional level.

PC of suitable specification to support internet access and Blackboard

You may find the following texts useful:
Roberts, K. and Ludvigsen, C., Project Management for Health Care Professionals (1998) Butterworth-Heinemann ISBN 0-7506-3405-7
Blaxter, L., Hughes, C. and Tight, M. (2001) 2nd Edition. How to Research. Open University Press ISBN 0 335 212216
Moore, N. (2000) 3rd Edition.
How to do research: the complete guide to designing and managing research projects. Library Association Publishing. ISBN 1856043584
Internet and on-line sources as directed.
Other references to be detailed in module handbook and where appropriate throughout the module.

You cannot combine this module with other research skills or project management modules offered at the University.

This module enables you to develop and enhance your research skills and to learn about effective project management within a clinical context. Evidence-based research is increasingly impacting on the day-to-day decision making within clinical, scientific and other health professions. The skills toolkit for a successful researcher is a wide ranging package of generic skills, many of which are applicable to project management. We begin the module with the fundamental research tools: understanding the nature of research, literature appraisal and survey, research and experimental design, sampling and evaluation, data definition & statistical analysis, documentation, scientific writing and presentation of research findings in varied formats. Project management completes the module by setting forth the mechanics of how to manage projects. The project process is explored; idea development, team assembly & leadership, planning, making it happen, completing the project and evaluation. Total quality management and benchmarking are also included. Reference is made to the essential role of ethics, health & safety and project costing in project planning. Case studies of research, clinical trials and project management are taken from clinical, biomedical and pharmaceutical examples. Module participants will develop and design a research project and be involved in on-line project management.