Foundations in Research Methods and Data Analysis (Online Course)
Program Overview
This online course in Foundations in Research Methods and Data Analysis empowers healthcare professionals and students to conduct rigorous research, critically appraise studies, and draw sound conclusions. It covers both qualitative and quantitative methods, with a focus on developing specialized skills in specific methodologies. Participants will enhance their critical thinking, analytical, and research design abilities, enabling them to improve service delivery in health and social care settings.
Program Outline
Extracted Information from the "Foundations in Research Methods and Data Analysis (Online Course)" Professional Development Course:
Degree Overview:
Objective:
This course aims to empower participants to develop their theoretical, methodological, and research skills to effectively conduct academic literature searches, critically appraise research studies, design and execute rigorous research, and draw sound analytical conclusions. These conclusions serve as the foundation for developing effective service delivery in health and social care organizations.
Overview:
Participants will acquire a comprehensive understanding of the principles, theory, and epistemology of research and data analysis methods. The course emphasizes both qualitative and quantitative research methods and study designs equally.
Target Audience:
This course is specifically designed for:
- Clinical practitioners across medical and non-medical fields
- Students pursuing qualifications in public health, health policy, advanced clinical practice, and health management
Format:
The course is delivered online in Autumn and Spring terms over 10 weeks. All materials are provided through the Moodle platform.
Benefits:
- Enhance critical thinking skills to appraise and conduct rigorous research.
- Develop sound analytical conclusions for effective service delivery in health and social care settings.
- May be taken as part of a Master's program in the School of Health & Psychological Sciences or as a standalone CPD course (60 CPD hours).
Outline:
Content:
- Research methodology theory in Health Services Research
- Formulating research questions for qualitative and quantitative projects
- Understanding methods and study designs in both qualitative and quantitative research
- Developing specialized skill sets in either quantitative, qualitative, or systematic review methodologies
Structure:
- Knowledge and understanding:
- In-depth knowledge of methodological theory in Health Services Research
- Confidence in formulating research questions
- Critical awareness of research methods and study designs
- Developed specialist skill sets in chosen methodologies
- Skills:
- Critically assess the strengths and limitations of research proposals, studies, and reviews
- Design and implement search strategies for systematic reviews
- Plan research projects or service evaluations
- Utilize specialist software (SPSS) for data analysis
- Choose appropriate analytical approaches for different research data types
- Values and attitudes:
- Respect for ethical considerations in health and social care research
- Upholding privacy and confidentiality
- Respectful and ethical behavior
Assessment:
- Online multiple-choice exam covering basic knowledge across taught topics (50% of course marks)
- Analytic report in the form of:
- 'Mini-lab' quantitative analysis assessment
- Qualitative analysis coursework
- Systematic review assignment (participant's choice) (50% of course marks)
- Online discussion contributions (minimum 250 words across 5 activities)
- Successful completion of all assessment components is required for course completion.
Teaching:
Methods:
- Online lectures
- Self-directed worksheets and exercises
Faculty:
- Dr. Mark Haddad, Senior Lecturer in Mental Health
Unique Approaches:
- This course is entirely online, providing flexibility for participants.
Careers:
Outcomes:
- Develop the expertise to critically appraise research and conduct rigorous studies for improved service delivery in health and social care.
Other:
- This is a 30-credit course at Level 7.
- Offered by the School of Health & Psychological Sciences.
Recommended Reading:
Priority Reading:
- Bowling, A. (2014). Research methods in health: Investigating health and health services. Maidenhead: Open University Press.
- Field, A. P. (2018). Discovering statistics using IBM SPSS. London: SAGE.
- Pallant, J. (2016). SPSS survival manual: A step by step guide to data analysis using SPSS. Maidenhead: Open University Press.
- Denzin, N., & Lincoln, Y. S. (Eds.). (2018). The SAGE handbook of qualitative research, Fifth edition. Los Angeles: SAGE.
- Centre for Reviews and Dissemination, University of York. (2008). Systematic reviews: CRD's guidance for undertaking reviews in health care [PDF].
City University of London
Overview:
City, University of London is a public research university located in London, England. It is known for its focus on business, practice, and the professions, offering a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs. The university is renowned for its strong academic reputation and its commitment to providing students with a high-quality learning experience.
Services Offered:
City University of London provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:
Library Services:
Access to extensive library resources, including books, journals, databases, and online resources.Moodle:
An online learning platform for accessing course materials, submitting assignments, and communicating with instructors.Email:
A university-provided email account for official communication.Staff Directory:
A searchable directory of staff members and their contact information.Term Dates:
Information on the academic year and term dates.Room Booking:
A system for booking rooms on campus for meetings, events, and other purposes.Schools and Departments:
Information on the various schools and departments within the university.Student Life and Campus Experience:
City University of London offers a vibrant and diverse student experience, with a strong emphasis on:
London Experience:
The university's location in London provides students with access to a wide range of cultural, social, and professional opportunities.Sports:
A variety of sports clubs and facilities are available for students to participate in, both competitively and non-competitively.Social Activities and Groups:
Numerous student societies and groups cater to diverse interests, providing opportunities for social interaction and personal development.Student Wellbeing:
The university offers a range of support services to ensure students' health and wellbeing, including learning support, personal tutoring, and counseling.Career Development:
The university provides career guidance and support services to help students prepare for their future careers.Key Reasons to Study There:
Strong Academic Reputation:
City University of London is consistently ranked highly in national and international rankings.Focus on Business, Practice, and the Professions:
The university's programs are designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in their chosen careers.Location in London:
The university's location in the heart of London provides students with access to a wealth of opportunities.Vibrant Student Life:
City University of London offers a diverse and engaging student experience.Excellent Career Support:
The university provides comprehensive career guidance and support services.Academic Programs:
City University of London offers a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines, including:
Business and Management:
Bayes Business School is renowned for its programs in finance, accounting, marketing, and entrepreneurship.Law:
The City Law School is a leading institution for legal education, offering programs in law, international law, and legal practice.Health and Psychological Sciences:
The School of Health & Psychological Sciences offers programs in nursing, midwifery, psychology, and other health-related fields.Science and Technology:
The School of Science & Technology offers programs in computer science, engineering, mathematics, and other STEM fields.Communication and Creativity:
The School of Communication & Creativity offers programs in journalism, media, performing arts, and language studies.Other:
Merger with St George's:
City University of London has merged with St George's, University of London, forming a new institution called City St George's, University of London.Awards and Accreditations:
The university has received numerous awards and accreditations for its teaching, research, and commitment to equality and diversity.Global City:
City University of London is a global institution with a strong international presence.University of London:
City University of London is a member of the University of London, a federation of 18 independent colleges and institutes.Entry Requirements:
EU Home Students:
- A bachelor's degree with a minimum 2:2 honours in a relevant subject, or equivalent qualification.
- A strong interest in research methods and data analysis.
International Overseas Students:
- A bachelor's degree with a minimum 2:2 honours in a relevant subject, or equivalent qualification.
- A strong interest in research methods and data analysis.
- International English Language Test System (IELTS) score of 7.0 with no subtest below 7.0, or equivalent qualification.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
- All applicants who are non-native English speakers must have a minimum IELTS score of 7.0 with no subtest below 7.0, or equivalent qualification.
Additional Notes:
- The course is also open to students who are not currently enrolled in a health or social care program, but who have a strong interest in research and data analysis.
- There are no formal eligibility criteria for this course, but applicants are expected to have a strong interest in research methods and data analysis.
- Students will require access to a computer with a reliable internet connection, speakers, and a microphone.
Sources:
- City, University of London: Foundations in Research Methods and Data Analysis (Online Course)
- City, University of London: International English Language Test System (IELTS) requirements Please let me know if you have any other questions.