Introduction to Research Methods
6 Credits (ECTS)
Introduction to Research Methods
Get 70% back via Tax Credit
€280 refund on this module
Module Description
This module is designed for participants who need to gain understanding of research approaches and skills and gain an ability to deploy research methods in their studies or in professional lives.
In particular, this module will aid those who have to conduct research as part of their undergraduate studies and it is for those who feel they would like additional support for self-improvement.
This module is a comprehensive introduction to research methods and will cover broad topics: the fundamentals of doing research, ethical considerations, research methods, research design, data collection, and data analysis.
In discussing each topic, the ethical implications of research will be covered. Research is a craft, and like any other craft, it takes practice to do it well.
Therefore, this module places the student experience at the centre of our endeavours by engaging learners in a range of robust and challenging discussions and exercises. Learners will have opportunity to learn by doing in all aspects of the course—in class meetings, online classroom, and out-of-class assignments.
No prior knowledge or experience in research is required to take this course.
Entry Requirements
- Candidates who apply for this course must possess a qualification equivalent to a Higher Diploma (120 ECTS) in Nursing accredited at MQF 5.
- Preference will be given to prospective applicants having a year of work experience related to the study programme.
Target Audience
- This programme is targeted at nurses who are registered with the Council for Nurses and Midwives Malta and/or other registering bodies.
Module / Unit Instructions
The proposed structure comprises a blended approach promoting the building of a community of practice via peer-to-peer learning. The structure uses primarily two dimensions of teaching-learning modes:
- Face to Face sessions
Face-to-face sessions include lectures, tutorials, discussions, presentations and workshop activities promoting peer-to-peer learning.
- Online Learning Activities
Online learning activities incorporate tutorials and asynchronous discussions. These may consist of active interaction, 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
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.
Additional Info
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be eligible for a 70% refund of the cost through the ‘Get Qualified’ scheme.**
Due to the modular structure of the course, you may also opt to take individual modules as stand-alone. The entry requirements still apply.***
*Prices are applicable to students who reside in Malta at the time of applying.
**Terms and conditions apply.
Learning Outcomes
Competences:
At the end of the module/unit the learner will have acquired the responsibility and autonomy to:
- Formulate research questions and design appropriate research.
- Collect own data using a variety of methods § Critically analyse both qualitative and quantitative data using computer-based skills.
- Critically evaluate own research and that of other scientists.
- Critically appraise ethical issues that may arise while carrying out research.
Knowledge:
At the end of the module/unit the learner will have been exposed to the following:
- Foundations.
- Quantitative Research part 1.
- Quantitative Research part 2.
- Qualitative Research part 1.
- Qualitative Research part 2.
- Mix Methods.
Skills:
At the end of the module/unit the learner will have acquired the following skills:
- Formulate research questions and design appropriate research.
- Collect own data using a variety of methods.
- Analyze both qualitative and quantitative data using computer-based skills.
- Critically evaluate own research and that of other scientists.
- Appraise ethical issues that may arise while carrying out research.
Judgment Skills and Critical Abilities:
The learner will be able to:
- Critically apply knowledge and skills to devise solutions to unfamiliar problems.
- Conduct and evaluate research.
- Evaluate and critically appropriate to their disciplines (e.g. collect, analyse and interpret data and information, generate and test hypotheses, synthesise and organise information)
- Know what research methods to use to be crafted to address particular issue(s)
- Interpret findings.
Module-Specific Learner Skills:
The learner will be able to:
- Undertake independent and self-directed study through research, both primary and secondary.
Module-Specific Digital Skills and Competences:
The learner will be able to:
- Navigate through the online learning platform to find assignments, discussion boards, literature, tutorials etc.