1. Develop, critically evaluate and optimise aspects of evidence-based policing and, its application to policing in practice. Knowledge and understanding, Learning, Problem Solving.

2. Develop and optimise research methods and skills by, critically analysing and evaluating literature and statistics whilst demonstrating proficiency in academic writing.
Knowledge and understanding, Application, Enquiry, Analysis.

3. Develop theories and practices of verbal and non-verbal communications, to a range of professional audiences.
Knowledge and understanding, Communication.

1. An individual presentation of 10 minutes in duration in the form of a PowePoint (with voice over) aimed at a professional audience considering research methods delivered in a policing context (LO3)

2.. A project proposal of 1000 words outlining project ideas containing a summary of the background to the topic, a mini literature review and an initial plan of work with appropriate risk assessment and ethics considerations (LO 1&2)

This module enhances the learner’s understanding of evidence-based policing, research methods and communication skills.

This module incorporates all the learning outcomes and indicative content from the College of Policing, Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship Curriculum for the following areas:
Evidence-based policing;
1.1 to 3.6 inclusive
Research methods and skills;
1.1 to 6.2
Communication skills;
1.1 to 4.2 inclusive

Appendix 1 details all the learning and indicative content covered in this module.

The below is a brief summary of what the content includes:
• Potential constraints associated with evidence-based policing
• How to obtain available evidence, how to conduct a systematic review and how to critically evaluate the available evidence
• Planning research activities and awareness of research methodologies
• Proficiency in academic writing in accordance with ethical protocols
• Application of quantitative and quantitative research techniques including interpretation of data
• Theories and practices associated with communication in professional contexts
• Process for conducting an operational briefing

This module is a core module and commence at the start of the programme and will continue throughout the year. The module gives the students an over view of research methods, whilst developing and optimising aspects of evidence-based policing. It also looks at developing effective verbal and non-verbal communication skills, as well as ensuring students become proficient in academic and professional writing.
The module will be delivered through a series of lectures and tutorial sessions and complimented with PDP tutorials delivered by a dedicated personal tutor.¿ PDP sessions will encompass a mixture of pastoral support and professional development material as well as enhancing the knowledge and understanding of topics covered during the module.¿
Formative assessment will be via feedback on a draft of the presentation and research proposal. Formative assessment will be conducted and feedback in relation to the acquisition of data handling skills.

Formative assessment will be via feedback on a draft of the project proposal and mock data handling test.

Robson, C and McCkarten (2015), Real World Research, Wiley: London.

Seale, Gobo, Gubrium and Silverman, (2004), Qualitative Research Practice, Sage: London.

Alexander and Bennett (2008), Case Studies and Theory Development in the Social Sciences, MIT: Boston.

Agresti and Franklin (2009), The Art and Science of Learning from Data, Pearson: London.

Della, Porter and Keating (2008), Approaches and Methodologies in the Social Sciences, Cambridge University Press: Cambridge.

Blackboard VLE
University library and associated online learning materials.
Teaching spaces equipped with computer, projector, screen, white boards etc.
Live streaming/recording equipment/software.