Overview

Content will include: The scientific method an overview of quantitative and qualitative approaches. Secondary data analysis techniques. Systematic review techniques Writing research proposals Quantitative and qualitative research approaches and their methods. Reflexivity and the role of the researcher in qualitative research Sources of knowledge and the hierarchy of evidence Art and science of nursing / Benner’s ways of knowing Identifying research questions PICO/PEO/SPIDER Literature data bases and systematic search strategies Developing critical appraisal skills – using critical appraisal tools Research vs. audit and service evaluation Research process Methodology design – epistemology, ontology and philosophical principles of quantitative and qualitative methodologies to gain new knowledge Data collection methods for qualitative and quantitative research Sample selection and participants Rigour, validity and reliability Data analysis for quantitative and qualitative methods, Research ethics and governance Implementation research
Barriers and enablers to implementing evidence based practice in the NHS Decision making, accountability Clinical judgements, intuition and technical rationality.

Assessment Strategy

-threshold -C- to C+ Grade 50 - 59%: students will be required to demonstrate some knowledge and critical evaluation of the underlying principles of reflective practice, research methodologies and methods used to develop evidence to support practice.

-good -B- to B+ Grade: 60 to 69%: to achieve an 'good pass' students will be required to demonstrate detailed knowledge and critical evaluation of the underlying principles of reflective practice, research methodologies and methods used to develop evidence to support practice.

-excellent -A- to A* Grade 70% plus : To achieve an ‘excellent pass’ students will be required to demonstrate comprehensive knowledge and critical evaluation of the underlying principles of reflective practice, research methodologies and methods used to develop evidence to support practice.

Learning Outcomes

• Critically appraise the hierarchy of knowledge used to support the art and science of nursing by being able to critically evaluate research methodologies, research methods and how these support developing new knowledge to support evidence based person-centred care in the student's field of practice.

• Critically evaluate the inter-personal, clinical reasoning and decision making skills necessary for implementing evidence-based, person-centred care within the multi-disciplinary team.

• Critique, synthesise and apply relevant research evidence to the implementation of patient care through a clearly defined research question.

• Critique, synthesise and apply relevant research evidence to the implementation of patient care through a clearly identified research question.

• Develop the critical thinking and practical skills to be able to conduct a systematic search of the literature and critically evaluate of evidence and its application to practice.

• Use scholarly enquiry and critical evaluation to plan, develop and conduct a robust research project that justifies the research methodology, design and techniques utilised.