This module has been designed to enable you to undertake an in-depth critical analysis of research methods currently used 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.

Students are to choose EITHER...
A critical review of the literature in the discipline with particular emphasis upon the application of research methodologies and the research process adopted, which assesses all LOs.
OR
A research proposal, including a literature search and critical appraisal of issues related to the proposed methodology, which assesses all LOs.

This module is a distance learning module based over 10 weeks of focused delivery. There are structured live webinars arranged throughout the module to create discussions and allow for formative feedback on tasks. There are active discussion boards used in blackboard which allow for classroom concepts to be debated as well as individual tasks that can be presented in tutorials to gain structured feedback on progress. All pre course reading materials and course documentation will be available through blackboard. It will be necessary for students to engage fully in the Black Board activities and tasks and they are encouraged to participate in the discussion forums within blackboard to enhance the teaching / learning experience. This will consist of several Activities and Tasks, from which students will be asked to actively contribute to electronic based discussions.

1. Critically appraise the procedural data collection issues such as ethical principles and methods of analysing and interpreting data.
Analysis and Enquiry.

2. Demonstrate a critical understanding of the principles that guide research.
Knowledge and Understanding.

3. Develop and advance evaluation of a variety of research methodologies.
Analysis and reflection.

4. Evaluate research tools used to address problems in practice, applied to your own speciality/discipline.
Learning and Analysis

Standard library and IT facilities.

Matthews, T. (2019) Designing and Conducting research in health and human performance. Routledge ISBN:1138320773

Hossain M. (2021) Making Sense of Medical Statistics:A bite sized visual guide. Cambridge University Press 110897815

Greener, I. (2011) Designing Social Research, London: Sage Publications. ISBN - 1849201900

Cohen, L., Manian L, Momson K (2011) Research Methods in Education Routledge ISBN - 1138209880

Punch, K.F. (2006) (2nd ed) Developing Effective Research Proposals. Sage Publications. ISBN - 1412921260

Students have to be either an allied health professional registered with the HCPC, Sports therapist or biomechanist who support allied health professionals or a medical professional. All whom are involved in musculoskeletal practice.

This module has been designed to enable you to undertake an in-depth critical analysis of research methods currently used 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.