MHPE-704: Research Methods & Approaches (RM&A)
MHPE 704: Research Methods & Approaches (10 credits)
Aims of the module:
This module aims to introduce students to the range and variety of educational research methods appropriate to research in the medical/health professional field. Students will be made aware of the different ways of conceptualizing research in medicine and education and consequent tensions inherent in research in the medical education field. The module aims to develop the confidence and skills to undertake research in this field, recognizing and aspiring to international standards in the presentation and publication of such research.
Learning outcomes:
At the end of this module the participants should be able to:
- Relate theoretical perspectives to qualitative and quantitative research approaches
- Critically evaluate published educational research from both a theoretical and methodological perspective
- Identify and select relevant and feasible research questions and problems
- Identify a range of research methods, recognizing their strengths, weaknesses and appropriate applications
- Carry out data collection and analysis using at least two different methods.
- Develop a research proposal for a small piece of educational research, selecting and justifying data sources (primary and secondary), methods to be used and potential ethical issues and concerns raised
Content:
- Research methodologies and approaches in medical education
- Characteristics of research questions/problems in medical education
- Selection and definition of a researchable question
- Reviewing the literature
- Data collection and analysis: problems and pitfalls
- Preparation of a research plan
- Using SPSS and other research software tools
Assessment:
Research synopsis Critical review of methodology of two research articles Short report on data-gathering exercise | c.5000 words in total | End of module |
Examination question | 1 | End of year |