Research Methods and Evidence for Nursing Practice
12 Credits (ECTS)
Research Methods and Evidence for Nursing Practice
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Module Description
This module enables students to gain a solid foundation in empirical research, essential for advancing nursing practice.
Students will learn to devise and implement research projects, ensuring they can conduct studies that contribute valuable insights to the field.
The curriculum emphasizes critical appraisal of published literature, teaching students to evaluate the quality and relevance of research findings effectively.
Additionally, students will develop their research proposals, honing their ability to design robust studies that address pertinent nursing issues. This module equips future nurses with the skills necessary to integrate evidence-based practices into their professional roles, ultimately enhancing patient care quality.
Entry Requirements
Candidates who apply for this course will need to possess:
- Two A-levels, one of them preferably being in a science subject, or an equivalent qualification at MQF Level 4 (for example, a Level 4 Diploma in Applied Science).
- Either Biology or Chemistry or Health & Social Care at Intermediate level.
OR
- At least 1 of the following: Biology, Chemistry, or Health & Social Care at level 4 (advanced or intermediate)
- and at least 3 of the following: Physics, Sociology, Psychology, English, Maltese or Mathematics at level 4 (advanced or intermediate).
Applicants will also need to:
- Demonstrate proficiency in English language by a valid International English Language Testing System level at overall level 6 or Occupational English Test with B in speaking and C+ in writing or Matriculation and Secondary Education Certificate (MATSEC) pass at Grade 3 or better in English Language.
- Prior to commence the enrolling in any nursing programme, students should provide evidence of a clean conduct published by the respective police force or authority.
- In the case of those students who do not possess a Level 4 qualification, but who have a substantial amount of experience in the care industry and who possess O-level standard education, ca n be accepted into this Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Nursing Science, on the condition that they undergo and acquire a pass in a Level 4 preparatory programme offered by IDEA College.
Furthermore, these students shall also undergo a RPL process in order to verify their work experience. Link to RPL Policy and Process: https://mt.ideaeducation.com/app/uploads/2022/09/Doc_007_22-Recognition-of-Prior-Learning-Policy-and-Process.pdf
Target Audience
This programme targets:
- Students who have completed their post-secondary education and would like to pursue a tertiary-level education in nursing.
- Older adults who have worked in different environments, but mostly in the care industry, who are interested in pursuing a programme in nursing.
- Individuals who are qualified in areas related to healthcare such as podiatry and physiotherapy and who are looking for or considering a career change in nursing.
Module / Unit Instructions
- This module uses a blended approach promoting the building of a community of practice via peer-to-peer learning.
- This module consists of lecturer-led sessions which include class lectures, online sessions, tutorials, discussions, presentations and workshop activities, fora and peer discussions promoting peer-to-peer learning, as well as simulation learning during which the students can work on an array of scenarios through role play.
- Online learning activities– synchronous and asynchronous sessions – may include active interaction led by the lecturer, participation, and contributions in fora discussions, sharing resources and self-reflection exercises. Learners also contribute to the building of the community of practice by providing feedback to their peers as critical friends, enhancing the learner’s critical engagement throughout the study period.
How you’ll be assessed
Assessment of this module consists of two components:
- Formative development of research proposal
- Summative submission of research proposal linked to plans for the dissertation.
Assessment
- Formative assessment is carried out during engagement in classroom discussion and group activities, talking through research plans, and giving and receiving feedback on proposal.
- Summative assessment is done via one assignment at the end of the module. This will be in the form of a written structured research proposal.
Learning Outcomes
Competences:
At the end of the module/unit the learner will have acquired the responsibility and autonomy to:
- Evaluate and synthesise the evidence-based practice cycle and be able to relate this to the practice of nurses and other healthcare professionals.
- Critically analyse the key features of methodological design in both qualitative and quantitative approaches to research in the evidence base for healthcare.
- Apply recognised frameworks to the critical appraisal of published research for evidence-based practice and use research terminology appropriately.
- Demonstrate awareness of the ethical dimensions of research.
Knowledge:
By the end of this module the student will have been exposed to the following indicative content:
- Evaluate and synthesise the evidence-based practice cycle and be able to relate this to the practice of nurses and other healthcare professionals.
- Critically analyse the key features of methodological design in both qualitative and quantitative approaches to research in the evidence base for healthcare.
- Apply recognised frameworks to the critical appraisal of published research for evidence-based practice and use research terminology appropriately.
- Demonstrate awareness of the ethical dimensions of research.
Skills:
By the end of this module, the students will be able to:
- Identify and address a gap in research.
- Write a research question.
- Choose an appropriate research design.
- Plan a research study using appropriate sampling, data collection, and data analysis methods.
- Appraise the quality of published research using validated tools such as CASP.
- Write a research proposal.
- Use a range of verbal and written communication skills to provide a rationale for choice of study and research proposal planned.
Module-Specific Learner Skills:
At the end of the module/unit the learner will be able to
- Present own discussion and developments in a logical and organised manner through approaches of critical feedback and self-reflection.
- Engage with peers and/or team members to share and reflect on own development.
Module-Specific Digital Skills and Competences:
At the end of the module/unit, the learner will be able to:
- Navigate through the online learning platform to find assignments, discussion boards, literature, tutorials, etc.