This module gives the students an opportunity to carry out an independent research project with the aim of identifying a problem/issue. The module will also allow students to evaluate and plan how the problem/issue may be addressed.

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 research project.

The below is a brief summary of what the content includes:

Carrying out research to identify and understand an emerging issue or problem

Developing a research proposal

Planning an intervention to tackle the identified problem

Presenting and disseminating the research

These mandated assessments will be carried out in line with the Institute for Apprenticeships & Technical Education’s (IfATE) Police Constable (Degree) Apprenticeship Standard (ST0304) and its corresponding Apprenticeship End-Point Assessment Plan (EPAP): Police constable (integrated degree) / Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education

The EPAP prescribes the assessment and grading criteria for each assessment component, which will be applied in the implementation of assessment.

Assessment 1, the EBRP, involves the conduct of an action-based research project submitted at week 42, ahead of the ensuing assessment, weighted to satisfy the requirements for a final year level 6 honours degree project. This work will be written in structured format that apprentices will be familiar with and will be guided by a university research mentor (Learning Outcomes 2, 3 & 4).

Assessment 2, the Presentation and Panel Discussion, requires the presentation of the EBRP to a panel lead by the Independent End-Point Assessor. This will be followed by a panel discussion lead by an Independent End-Point Assessor (IEPA) to assess application and synthesis. The panel will be comprised of the IEPA, and both a university and force representative. (Learning Outcomes 1, 4 & 5).

The presentation will last for 30 minutes, and the panel discussion for 30-40 minutes.

Demonstrate occupational competence and understanding of specialist or higher-level policing knowledge and skills, underpinning evidence-based research

Knowledge and Understanding, Analysis, Communication, Application, Reflection

Apply appropriate research and analytical methodologies and problem-solving techniques to critically evaluate an emerging issue within a specific policing context

Analysis, Problem Solving, Application

Demonstrate critical evaluation of evidence, arguments, and assumptions, to reach and effectively communicate sound judgements

Analysis, Communication, Application

Formulate sound recommendations to synthesise findings into operational delivery, demonstrating comprehensive understanding of the potential value and impact of on workplace, workforce and service

Knowledge and Understanding, Communication, Application

Critically reflect on application of higher-level skills and learning, demonstrating consideration and application of professional integrity in evidence-based research

Learning, Reflection

This is an independent project led by the student with support and academic supervision provided by a personal tutor, group tutorials are provided to offer further support.

Blackboard VLE

MS Teams

University library and associated online learning materials.

Live streaming/recording equipment/software.

IfATE Police Constable (Degree Apprenticeship) Standard

IfATE Police Constable (Degree Apprenticeship) End-Point Assessment Plan

University recommended books available in the Institute of Policing Library:¿

Alasuutari, P., Bickman, L., and Brannen, J (eds.). (2008) The Sage Handbook of Social Research Methods. London: Sage.¿

Bell, J. (2010) Doing Your Research Project. 4th edition, Milton Keynes Open University Press.¿

Bryman, A. (2012). Social Research Methods, 4th Edition. Oxford: Oxford University Press.¿

Bryman, A. (2004) Quantity and Quality in Social Research. London: Routledge.¿

Crow, I. and Semmens, N. (2008) Researching Criminology. Maidenhead: Open University Press.¿

Fielding, N., Lee, R.M., and Blank, G. (2008) The Sage Handbook of Online Research Methods. London: Sage.¿

Noaks, L., and Wincup, E. (2004) Criminological Research: Understanding Qualitative Methods. London: Sage.¿

Silverman, D. (ed). (2011). Qualitative Research: Issues of Theory, Method and Practice. 3rd Edition. London: Sage Publications.¿

Somekh, B., and Lewin, C. (2005) Research Methods in the Social Sciences. London: Sage.¿

College of Policing What Works website and APP.¿

Society of Evidence Based Policing

This is a core module that allows students to demonstrate their professional competency to an Independent End Point Assessor and to carry out an independent research project with the aim of identifying a local problem/issue. This module also allows students to evaluate and plan how the problem/issue may be addressed. Students define a research project of their choice; formulate a proposal; gain ethical approval; and complete the project. This will be done under the supervision of an appointed member of staff who mentors the student. The project must be appropriately supported by scholarly apparatus. The student is required to present the project and their evidence-based recommendations to a panel chaired by an Independent End-Point Assessor.

This element, alongside the Occupational Competence Review assessment in the associated EPA module, must be passed to complete and achieve the integrated degree apprenticeship.