Research Methods
6 ECTS
Research Methods
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Module Description
This module enables students to learn about empirical research, devising and implementing research projects, critically appraising published literature, and developing a research proposal.
Entry Requirements
- A qualification at MQF Level 4 (one ‘A’ Level or equivalent) in Care or a related field and English Language at MQF Level 3 (‘O’ Level or equivalent).
- In the case of students who do not possess all the formal required academic qualifications, then the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) process could be applied such that if evidence of equivalent learning is found then the applicant could still be accepted on the course. Such RPL process will subject applicants to an interview held with a board of experts within the field, chosen specifically by IDEA College, so as to verify their experiences and prior learning.
*Students whose first language is not English and do not possess an ‘O’ level pass in English Language will be required to demonstrate English language capability at IELTS level 6.0 or equivalent.
Target Audience
The programme targets the following groups:
- Individuals seeking to advance their academic and professional knowledge in the field of care.
- Individuals wanting to pursue a wide range of career paths within the care profession.
- Individuals seeking to enhance their ability to interpret, assess, and communicate care-related information.
- Individuals already working in care who wish to progress to more advanced positions.
- Individuals aiming to continue their studies in health and social care at higher levels.
Career Paths
This qualification prepares students for advanced roles in direct care provision, including:
- Senior Care Assistant
- Community Support Worker
- Mental Health Support Worker
- Pediatric Care Assistant
- Personal Care Assistant
- Disability Support Worker
- Palliative / End-of-Life Care Worker
- Rehabilitation Support Worker
- Residential Care Worker
How you’ll be assessed
The course comprises:
- Evening classes for part-time courses.
- Classes held throughout the day for full-time courses.
- Guided learning, presentations, comprising synchronous online discussions, tutorials and/or videos.
- Self-study hours comprising research, reading and assignment work.
Assessment
Assessment is carried out via two mandatory components:
- Formative Assessment
- Summative Assessment
The programme includes different forms of assessment which allow for and promote students’ critical engagement. The formative and summative assessment tasks may include an in-class assignment and/or a home-based written assignment using diverse assessment tools which may take the form of online and in-class discussions, examinations, case studies, reports, proposals, essays, and presentations, etc., as applicable to the diverse modules.
Learning Outcomes
Competences:
At the end of the module/unit, the learner will have acquired the responsibility and autonomy to:
- Evaluate the evidence-based practice cycle and be able to relate this to the practice of care providers.
- 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 analysis 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 the module/unit, the students will be able to:
- Evaluate the evidence-based practice cycle and be able to relate this to the practice of care providers.
- 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 analysis of published research for evidence-based practice and use research terminology appropriately.
- Demonstrate awareness of the ethical dimensions of research.
Skills
At the end of the module/unit, the learner will have acquired the following skills:
- 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.
- Examine the quality of published research.
- Write a level-appropriate 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
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
The learner will be able to:
- Navigate through the online learning platform to find, download, and upload assignments, discussion boards, literature, tutorials, etc.