A research proposal, including a literature search and critical appraisal of issues related to the proposed methodology. Weighting: 3,500 word written proposal 100% (contributes to meeting all LO's)

Formative Assessment:
Online group discussions with peers and module tutors around research proposals.

This module has been designed to enable you to undertake an in-depth critical analysis of research methodology and methods currently employed in a variety of settings. 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 defence of your ideas when open to the scrutiny of others.

To assist you, the theoretical components of the module will consider competing research paradigms 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.

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 structured learning on Blackboard. The aim is to ensure that the experiences of the group are shared and that students receive individual feedback on their thinking as it develops. Particular emphasis will be placed on a strategy to integrate the whole process of knowledge delivery, application to research. 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.

Contact Hours: (3)
3 hours Individual feedback

Independent Study Hours: (147)
50 hours assignment writing
65 hours reading and researching
32 hours Active individual learning using materials (narrated powerpoints, podcasts, short tasks, discussion board etc) on Blackboard

In addition, students may, if they wish, complete a formative assessment: Presentation to peers of a critique of a research paper for 'cafe bar' debate on blackboard

Internet access
Personal computer
E-library
SPSS

Bowling, A & Ebrahim, S. (2005) Handbook of Health Research Methods: investigation, measurement & analysis. Maidenhead, Open University Press
Bryman, A. (2015) Social Research Methods. Oxford: Oxford University Press
Greener, I. (2011) Designing Social Research, London: Sage Publications
Punch, K.F. (2006) (2nd ed) Developing Effective Research Proposals. Sage Publications

1. CRITICALLY APPRAISE PROCEDURAL DATA COLLECTION ISSUES INCLUDING ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND METHODS OF ANALYSING AND INTERPRETING DATA.
(Analysis, Enquiry)

2. DEMONSTRATE A CRITICAL AWARENESS OF THE PRINCIPLES THAT GUIDE GOOD RESEARCH.
(Application)

3. CRITICALLY EVALUATE METHODOLOGY AND A VARIETY OF RESEARCH METHODS.
(Analysis)

4. CRITICALLY EVALUATE RESEARCH TOOLS USED TO ADDRESS PROBLEMS IN PRACTICE, APPLIED TO YOUR OWN SPECIALITY/DISCIPLINE.
(Analysis)

This module will enable you to develop an in-depth understanding of research methodology and methods. Academic research often favours a polysyllabic terminology, but often what is behind the long words is entirely compatible with our ‘everyday’ understanding of the world! You will already have many skills required for research from your employment and prior education. This module will provide you the opportunity to sharpen these skills in the pursuit of an advanced understanding of research methodology and methods. This understanding can then be applied within the Masters Dissertation in particular, but will also be transferable to a breadth of educational and employment settings.