Foundations of academic research: understanding the extended research project, selecting a topic, and linking research to health and social care practice and theory.

Finding and managing evidence: conducting systematic literature searches, using academic databases, and working with peer-reviewed and grey literature.

Research design and critical evaluation: aligning aims, methodology, and evidence while applying critical appraisal frameworks to assess research quality.

Academic writing and supervision: developing clear, critical writing and making effective use of academic feedback and supervision.

Project development and ethical practice: refining research focus, developing methodology, and addressing ethics, safeguarding, and data protection.

Analysis, application and dissemination: interpreting evidence, developing recommendations for practice, and communicating findings through presentations and academic posters.

Assessment 1

Dissertation

Weighting: 80%

Assesses module learning outcomes: 1, 2, 3, and 4.

You will produce a 5,000‑word dissertation focusing on a specific topic within health or social care. This project will require you to conduct academic research, critically evaluate the accuracy, credibility and limitations of existing sources, and apply theoretical concepts to develop evidence‑based solutions to complex sector challenges. You should demonstrate a systematic understanding of the key debates, models, and contemporary issues that influence practice. Your final submission must be written in an academic style, include appropriate referencing, and show awareness of the practical implications of your findings for different stakeholder groups within health and social care. Part of the assessment should include an element on the methodology of your literature search, e.g. the use of a PRISMA model. Please not that this project will be a secondary research project.

Rationale:
This assessment enables you to demonstrate your ability to undertake substantial independent research, analyse and evaluate a wide range of academic sources, and apply theoretical knowledge to real‑world health and social care contexts. These skills are essential for higher‑level academic study and for professional practice in a sector where evidence‑based decision‑making is critical. Completing this assessment will develop your capacity to interpret complex information, communicate research findings effectively, and produce reasoned, well‑supported arguments.

Assessment 2

Academic Poster Presentation – live or pre-recorded using PowerPoint or YouTube.

Weighting: 20%

Assesses module learning outcome: 5 and 6

You will create and deliver a 15-minute academic poster presentation that provides a clear and engaging summary of your dissertation (Assessment 1). Your poster should distil the key elements of your 5,000‑word project, including your research aim, rationale, methodology, core findings, critical analysis, and implications for health or social care practice. The poster must demonstrate strong digital literacy skills and use appropriate digital tools to present information clearly, accurately, and visually. Finally, your poster should contain an element of reflection that is linked to learning outcome 6. You will be assessed on the academic quality of your poster as well as the clarity, structure, and professionalism of your oral presentation.

Rationale:
This assessment enables you to translate a substantial piece of written research into a concise, accessible visual and verbal format. This is an essential skill in contemporary health and social care environments. Presenting the core insights from your dissertation helps consolidate your understanding, strengthens your ability to communicate evidence to diverse audiences, and demonstrates your capacity to use digital technologies effectively. This task also develops transferable skills in academic communication, digital presentation, and professional dissemination that are highly valuable for further study and employment within the sector.

You will engage with a range of active learning strategies, including independent research, critical analysis of literature, peer collaboration, supervised project work, and digital tools for data organisation and presentation, all designed to develop your autonomy, analytical thinking, and evidence-based decision-making skills in health and social care.

1. Conduct academic research in health or social care, critically evaluating the accuracy and limitations of sources and data.

Research Skills

2. Communicate the practical implications of health or social care research to varied audiences.

Communication

3. Integrate knowledge and skills to generate effective, evidence-based solutions to challenges in health and social care.

Application and Problem Solving

4. Demonstrate detailed contemporary knowledge and systematic understanding of theories and concepts impacting health and social care.

Knowledge and Understanding

5. Apply digital literacy skills to effectively communicate and demonstrate your knowledge within a specific area of health or social care practice.

Digital Literacy

6. Critically evaluate your research skills, processes, and decision-making in completing an independent dissertation, identifying strengths, areas for development, and strategies for continuous improvement.

Personal Development and Entrepreneurship
Reflection

Ayton, D., Tsindos, T. and Berkovic, D., (2023). Qualitative Research – A Practical Guide for Health and Social Care Researchers and Practitioners. Melbourne: Monash University.

This guide is designed to support health and social care researchers and practitioners to integrate qualitative research into the evidence base of health and social care research.

Hennink, M., Hutter, I. and Bailey, A., (2020). Qualitative Research Methods. 2nd ed. London: SAGE Publications Ltd.

This book provides a structure and roadmap for learning the qualitative methods and cyclic nature of qualitative research.

Tilly, L. (ed.), (2021). Health and Social Care Research Methods in Context: Applying Research to Practice. London: Routledge.

This book shows how different research approaches are undertaken in practice and the challenges and strengths of different methodologies, thus facilitating students to make informed decisions when choosing which to use in their own research projects.

Blackstone, A., (2025). Social Research: Qualitative and Quantitative Methods. 3rd ed. New York: FlatWorld.

A comprehensive, student-focused textbook designed to introduce research methods in sociology and social sciences.

Neale, J., (2020). Research Methods for Health and Social Care. London: Bloomsbury Publishing.

A one-stop introduction to the most common qualitative, quantitative, and desk-based research designs and methods in health and social care.

What if you could investigate a real health or social care issue and produce research that informs practice and policy?

This module gives you the opportunity to undertake an independent research project on a topic of your choice within health or social care. You will develop advanced research skills to locate, evaluate and interpret academic evidence, enabling you to make informed and critical judgements about the credibility and limitations of different sources.

You will explore contemporary debates, theories and models that shape practice, applying your knowledge to develop evidence-based responses to complex challenges affecting individuals, families and communities. The module also strengthens your ability to communicate research clearly to different audiences and consider the real-world implications of your findings.

Alongside this, you will develop your digital literacy by using digital tools to organise, present and disseminate your work, including the creation of an academic poster.

Through supervision, peer learning and structured research activities, you will gain the confidence and independence required to design, manage and complete a substantial Level 6 research project, preparing you for evidence-based professional practice or further postgraduate study.