Course Details in 2026/27 Session

Module Title	Research Design and Service Evaluation
School	Sport, Ex and Rehab Sciences
Department	Sport, Ex and Rehab Sciences
Module Code	03 36397
Module Lead	Alan Cartwright
Level	Honours Level
Credits	20
Semester	Full Term
Pre-requisites
Co-requisites
Restrictions	None
Contact Hours	Lecture-11 hours Seminar-16 hours Project supervision-3 hours Guided independent study-170 hours Total: 200 hours
Exclusions
Description	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	36397-01 : Mock Research Funding Panel : Coursework (50%) 36397-02 : 1500-word structed essay : Coursework (50%)
Assessment Methods & Exceptions	Assessment 1. Mock research funding panel (50%): Students to appraise funding application/s and present to a panel of other students and teaching staff. Appraisal forms (Approx 600 words critically appraising one of the applications will be submitted for marking. 2. Structured essay (50%): Editing a partly-formed research proposal, including making adjustments to avoid risks of bias and address ethical considerations. Method of Reassessment Complete above components as required
Other
Reading List