Program Overview

Professional/Short Course Evidence and Research in Practice

Course Overview

The Evidence and Research in Practice module is available at both 15 and 20 credits. However, Community Practice/District Nurse pathway students can select the 20 credit Evidence and Research in Practice module (UZWR38203) only.

This level 6 (undergraduate level) Evidence and Research in Practice is a core module which aims to provide students with the opportunity to develop skills and knowledge in the evaluation of research evidence, in order to guide and inform professional practice and policy decisions.

It provides underpinning knowledge and understanding of research methods, enabling students to develop skills in critical appraisal of research. It also supports preparation for a dissertation.

On successful completion of this level 6 module, students will be able to:

• demonstrate an understanding of the implications of research evidence for professional practice and/or planning and delivery of services.
• evaluate and critically analyse a range of evidence supporting practice and policies in the workplace.
• evaluate the use of a range of research designs, data collection techniques and methods of data analysis.
• evaluate and synthesise an area of research relating to aspects of policy and professional practice.
• identify and extract the principles for successful implementation of planned change based on best available evidence.
• describe the constraints and barriers for implementation of evidence-based practice.

Careers / Further Study

This module can contribute towards the PGCert Health and Social Care, MSc Clinical Practice, and the Professional Development Awards.

This module can contribute towards:

• BSc(Hons) Health and Social Care
• BSc (Hons Specialist Practice (District Nursing)
• BSc(Hons) Nursing (International)
• Professional Development Awards

Structure

Content

The module syllabus typically includes the following:

• Questioning professional practice: The nature of knowledge, types of evidence, the relationship between research and policy. The wider context of evidence-based practice.
• Research: Interpretation of findings, identifying influences on validity, reliability and replication, application of research to policy and practice, the dissemination of research evidence.
• Management of change: Strategies to facilitate change, responsibilities of the individual, organisation and wider picture, e.g. national initiatives.

Learning and Teaching

The module is delivered online using a variety of approaches, including presentations, workshop activities, small group work, class discussion and individual tutorials. Learning is further supported by access to a web-based interactive resource tailored to the content module.

Assessment

A 2,500 word report in which students identify a research question arising from their professional practice, conduct a systematic search for an article reporting primary research, critically evaluate the strength of evidence and consider its trustworthiness in the context of evidence from current clinical guidelines (or a systematic review if appropriate).

Prices and Dates

Supplementary fee information is available, and funding may be available to support learning.

Features

The College of Health, Science and Society has an excellent reputation for the quality of its teaching and the facilities it provides.