1. Critically appraise qualitative and quantitative research papers using appropriate checklists.
Enquiry
2. Critically evaluate the use of qualitative and quantitative data from
published papers.
Analysis
3. Demonstrate appropriate methodologies for gathering research information and
materials
Knowledge and Understanding
Enquiry
4. Incorporate and apply research evidence into practice.
Analysis and Application
5. Review systematically a substantial body of knowledge in a relevant area of work and produce a report of the review of publishable quality for a peer-reviewed journal.
Application and Communication

Written critique of either (1) a set qualitative piece OR (2) a set quantitative research paper using the appropriate checklist (LO 1,2)

A systematic review of literature (with meta-analysis where appropriate) in a chosen speciality outlining the databases searched, mesh terms used and justification for searches. A manuscript will be presented in the format specified by the journal which you have identified in consultation with your Supervisor. Appendices containing information not usually included in published articles but which justifies the decisions made in the manuscript, further details of data analysis and the notes for contributors of the chosen journal should be included. (LO 3,4,5)

Students will receive formative feedback throughout the module comprising of a combination of task related feedback and comments on online discussion contributions.

This module has been designed to enable the students to undertake in-depth critical appraisal of published research evidence. In order to critically appraise and to assess its suitability for application in practice, the student will need to develop an understanding of methods commonly used in health care research.

To this end, research methods such as interviews, focus groups, Randomised Control Trials (RCTs) and other epidemiological methods will be presented and the pros and cons explored. The student will then be taken through the process of critically appraising these qualitative and quantitative research methods using appropriate published checklists. Through critiquing the research of others, the student will demonstrate the formation of his/her own research skills.

This module will also address: literature searching in order to identify appropriate literature; ethical principles surrounding research; methods of analysing and interpreting data; and will explore evidence-based practice issues surrounding the application of research into practice. The module is designed to guide you through the process of carrying out a systematic review in any health related field, with a view to advancing existing models, theories, instruments, methods, and practice. Course content will include defining topic and search parameters, conducting a search using appropriate databases and sources, and summarising findings from the review. The completed review should be of publishable quality.

This module has been designed to enable the students to undertake in-depth critical appraisal of published research evidence. In order to critically appraise and to assess its suitability for application in practice, the student will need to develop an understanding of methods commonly used in health care research.

To this end, research methods such as interviews, focus groups, Randomised Control Trials (RCTs) and other epidemiological methods will be presented and the pros and cons explored. The student will then be taken through the process of critically appraising these qualitative and quantitative research methods using appropriate published checklists. Through critiquing the research of others, the student will demonstrate the formation of his/her own research skills.

This module will also address: literature searching in order to identify appropriate literature; ethical principles surrounding research; methods of analysing and interpreting data; and will explore evidence-based practice issues surrounding the application of research into practice. The module is designed to guide you through the process of carrying out a systematic review in any health related field, with a view to advancing existing models, theories, instruments, methods, and practice. Course content will include defining topic and search parameters, conducting a search using appropriate databases and sources, and summarising findings from the review. The completed review should be of publishable quality.

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 activities supported through seminar and workshop activities delivered via black board. A great strength will be to ensure that the experiences of the group are shared. 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.

Learning activities will include: 1. Information and literature gathering using various methods, including the internet 2. Preparing and presenting critical appraisals of qualitative and quantitative research papers 3. Critique of a set qualitative and a set of quantitative research papers (choice of four from each group)

Crombie I (1996) The Pocket Guide to Critical Appraisal. BMJ Books

Girden ER (2001) Evaluating Research Articles From Start to Finish, Second Edition SAGE Inc

Gomm R, Needham G & Bullman A (2000) Evaluating Research in Health and Social Care. SAGE Ltd

Greenhalgh T (2010), How to Read a Paper The Basics of Evidence Based Medicine (4th ed) BMJ Books, London

Access to the online library, blackboard, Voicethread and Turnitin is required.