1. To investigate the current state of knowledge of a defined topic area within Operating Department Practice.

2. To evaluate how quality of evidence relates to research design, data collection & analysis.

3. To synthesise research findings from credible sources and communicate evidence-based insights and recommendations.

4. To reflect upon how the evidence-base relates to the effectiveness of your own practice.

A zero-weighted proposal on the assignment topic and intentions. This will enable the allocation of a relevant supervisor and feedback on the student’s initial plans.

6000-word Extended Project on a self-selected research topic relevant to Operating Department Practice. (100% weighting, assessing all learning outcomes.)

Additional Assessment Details (include formative feedback / assessment):

In addition to the lectures/group tutorials, students will have regular one-to-one supervision with a designated supervisor.

Building upon knowledge and skills developed over your degree, you will demonstrate your ability to evaluate a defined topic area that you have selected. This research will relate to an area of professional practice that you deem to be of particular interest. Upon successful completion of the module, you will be able to demonstrate how to evaluate and synthesise evidence with the goal of advancing knowledge within Operating Department Practice. You will learn about the role of finding and appraising evidence. This will include searching for credible sources and how the nature of evidence is shaped by research design and methods.

The module will address the following dimensions:


Establishing a topic area

Conveying the process of enquiry

Undertaking literature search and review

Making sense of and conveying research findings

Evaluating the generation of evidence

Appraising the quality of evidence

Formulating evidence-based recommendations

Scheduled Learning and Teaching Activities: (20 hours)¿

One-to-one supervision – 10 hours

Classroom lectures – 6 hours

Group Tutorials – 4 hours

Guided Independent Study: (280 hours)¿

Reading - 140 hours
Preparation for assessment - 140 hours

Aveyard, H. (2018) Doing a Literature Review in Health and Social Care: A practical guide (3rd Edition). Maidenhead: Open University Press.


Cottrell, S. (2017) Critical Thinking Skills: Developing Effective Analysis and Argument. London: Palgrave MacMillan.


Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP): Tools and Checklists [Online]. Available from: http://www.casp-uk.net/criticalappraisal


Moule, P. (2018) Making Sense of Research in Nursing, Health & Social Care (6th Edition). London: Sage.

Library resources¿
Blackboard/VLE¿
Classroom facilities

Students must have met the requirements for progression through Level 4 and Level 5 of the BSc (Hons) Operating Department Practice.