Independent directed learning will be presented on the theoretical perspectives of research that is closely linked to your work in preparation for the assessed elements of the module. The general mode of delivering this module is through directed reading and activities supported through seminar and workshop activities. A great strength will be to ensure that the experiences of the group are shared. Particular emphasis will be placed on a strategy to integrate the whole process of knowledge delivery, application to research in the health care setting and assessment. It is designed to ensure that all strands of the educational experience contribute to learning and to giving you the confidence to enter research and debate.

35 hours of your total study time for the module will be allocated to workshop (50%) and presentation sessions (25% and to explaining the concepts gained from the directed reading, with 25% in formal taught sessions.

In addition, students may, if they wish, complete a formative assessment: Presentation to peers of a critique of a research paper

This module has been designed to enable you to undertake an in-depth critical analysis of research methods currently used in a variety of settings, including healthcare, sport and exercise. In order to do this you will need to demonstrate that you can apply the theoretical issues of the module to practical situations such as critical evaluation of the research of others and the early formation of your own research skills. As part of the initial development of your research ideas, you will be taken through the process of setting research questions, defining a title, critically applying yourself to the design and possible analysis of your research and the presentation and defense of your ideas when open to the scrutiny of others.

To assist you, the theoretical components of the module will consider competing research paradigms and their place in healthcare, sport and exercise settings; the process of research critique and current issues in research. Evidence based practice and its relationship to research based practice, exploration of issues surrounding the application of research in practice; the use of specific methods commonly used in research of healthcare, sport and exercise.

Critical review of research literature in the discipline with particular emphasis upon the application of research methodologies and the research process adopted.

Pass
Proficient, fluently, presented arguments that demonstrate understanding of theoretical issues in the application of knowledge.
Work includes critical analysis that demonstrates breadth and depth of literature and knowledge in the subject area, and originality in presentation.
The use of evidence demonstrates an understanding of the advancement of the boundaries of knowledge and is used as a basis for problem - solving.
Referencing is complete and accurate.

Merit
A piece of work which meets all the requirements of a pass grade and in addition:
Presents arguments which have been underpinned by a thorough exploration of data and conceptual - based evidence which may go beyond the boundaries of the discipline. Discussion communicates ideas and arguments logically, concisely, clearly and effectively.

Distinction
An outstanding piece of work which meets all of the requirements of a merit grade and in addition:
Demonstrates creativity and innovation.
There is substantial evidence of critique, challenge and original thought.
The arguments presented are compelling and authoritative and demonstrate synthesis to support new ideas

Bowling, A., 1997, Research methods in health: investigating health and health services, Buckingham, Open University. ISBN 0-335-19885-6
Burton, D., (Ed) 2000, Research Training for Social Scientists, London: Sage Publications. ISBN 0-7619-6351-0
Greenhalgh, T., 1997, How to read a paper: the basics of evidence based medicine, London: BMJ Publishing Group. ISBN 0-7279-1139-2
Hicks, C. 1999 Research for clinical therapists - applied project design and analysis. Edinburgh, Churchill Livingstone.
Punch, K. F. 1998 Introduction to Social Research: quantitative and qualitative approaches, London: Sage ISBN 0-7619-5813-4
Sarantakos, S., 1998 (2nd ed) Social Research, Basingstoke: Macmillan Press. ISBN 0-333-73868-3

CD Rom and internet
Personal computer and printer
Library