This module will provide insights into the process of designing research studies, including setting of clear aims, matching methods to the aims, planning the analytic strategy, designing ethical research and writing study proposals. It includes approaches to, and benefits of, the evaluation of existing services or innovations (for example in health services delivery or other employment settings). Both qualitative and quantitative research designs will be covered.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the module students should be able to:
Understand and describe a range of research /service evaluation designs, including both qualitative and quantitative approaches.
Discuss the philosophical /epistemological underpinnings of different research paradigms, including the scientific /hypothesis-testing paradigm and the alternative epistemologies of qualitative research.
Appraise the quality of a range of research methods typically used in sport, exercise, pedagogy and/or health science research and service evaluation.
Understand the risks of bias associated with different elements of research design and ways to minimise bias in a range of research designs.
Identify the key ethical implications of different research designs and delivery methods and ways to minimise participant risk and maximise participant enjoyment of /benefits from taking part in research.
Design robust and ethically sound research and service evaluation projects.
Assessment: 1. Mock research funding panel (50%): Students to appraise funding application/s and present to a panel of other students and teaching staff. (10 mins + Q&A) 2. 1500-word structured essay (50%): Students to complete their own research proposal, including steps taken to avoid risks of bias and a section on ethical considerations.
Reassessment:
Complete above components as required.