Teaching and discussions on the practical process of conducting research within the NHS, social care and related clinical settings, with a particular focus on relevance and application to clinical psychology.

Dedicated workshops on writing the research report to the standard required for submission to a peer reviewed journal.

Workshop on writing an executive summary for participants/public.

Writing for publication and introduction to journal impact factors.

Preparation for the viva, including an opportunity to present research to years one and two.

Attention will also be given to the use of research supervision and to the oral defence of the thesis.

A Thesis comprising the following three elements:

1. A research report of publishable standard (maximum word limit 8,000 words, 50% weighted), presented in the format required for submission to an identified peer reviewed journal [LOs 1,2,34]

2. An executive summary or practice report of the research undertaken (maximum word limit 3,000, 50% weighted). This should be written in a format that is accessible by participants and/or service users. [LO 4]

3. A Viva voce examination, 0% weighted) of around one hour in length, conducted by an internal and an external examiner. [LOs 1, 3, 4]

N.B. All three elements of assessment must be passed.

In addition to submission of Papers 1 and 2 above, trainees will include their literature review paper, completed in year two, in the research portfolio. There is a formative submission opportunity for both the empirical paper and the executive summary paper

In class teaching, comprising group discussions, practical exercises to consolidate learning, trainee presentation of research to years one and two (to help prepare trainees for the viva voce)

Mostly independent study to enable completion of the research components of the thesis. Regular meetings with the research supervisor and module lead, as needed.

1. Demonstrate a systematic acquisition and understanding of a substantial body of knowledge which is at the forefront of professional practice by: identifying research questions, demonstrating an understanding of ethical issues, choosing appropriate research design, methods and analysis.

Knowledge and Understanding, Learning, Analysis, Application, Reflection.

2. Undertake research at an advanced level, contributing substantially to the development of new techniques, ideas, approaches and the creation and interpretation of new knowledge, which is of a quality to satisfy peer review and merit publication.

Knowledge and Understanding, Enquiry, Problem Solving, Communication, application.

3. Conceptualise, design and implement independent, original and translational research at the forefront of the discipline.

Learning, application, reflection.

4. Identify appropriate pathways for dissemination and communicate ideas and conclusions clearly and effectively to a range of audiences.

Enquiry, communication.

A room in which discussion groups can be formed

Computers running statistical and qualitative research software

Psychometric test resources

Internet and library resources

Service user and/or carer feedback on readability/accessibility of the Executive Summary paper

British Psychological Society (2021). Code of human research ethics.¿ BPS.¿

Murray, R. (2009). How to survive your viva: Defending a thesis in an oral examination. (2nd Ed.) Maidenhead: Open University Press.¿¿

Murray, R. (2011). How to write a thesis. (3rd Ed.). Maidenhead: Open University Press.¿

Murray, R. (2013). How to write for academic journals. (3rd Ed.). Open University Press.¿¿

Smith, N.J. (2009). Achieving your Professional Doctorate. Open University Press.

Sternberg, R.J. (2010). The Psychologist’s Companion: A Guide to Writing Scientific Papers for Students and Researchers (5th edn). Cambridge University Press.

There are more recommended texts than this (and resources on Blackboard), but I have just listed a sample of the main ones contained in the module handbook.

This module focuses on the practical process of conducting research within the NHS, social care and related clinical settings, with a particular focus on relevance and application to clinical psychology. Dedicated workshops are held on writing the research report to the standard required for submission to a peer reviewed journal; writing an executive summary/practice report, presenting material orally, and on preparing material for publication. Attention will also be given to the use of research supervision and to the oral defence of the thesis.¿¿