HAR6043: Introduction to Research Methods (online)

The Introduction to Research Methods (online) module is led by Sarah Crede. It runs in the Autumn semester and is worth 15 credits.


Overview

The Introduction to Research Methods (online) module is led by Sarah Crede. It runs in the Autumn semester and is worth 15 credits.

It is one of the modules on:

This module is available as a CPD option

This module is available in any year as a DDP module


Introduction

This module provides students with an introduction to quantitative and qualitative research methods and to the types of skills necessary for the planning, data gathering and dissemination stages of health-related research.

Topics covered include:

  • Research design
  • Methods of data collection
  • Approaches to analysing data and writing a research proposal

The course provides a foundation for further learning in specific research methods. It is primarily designed for new students beginning masters courses in the School of Health and Related Research (ScHARR) and there is an emphasis on research techniques used in public health and health services research (HSR).


Objectives

  • To equip students with a basic understanding of the underlying principles of quantitative and qualitative research and the links between the two
  • To introduce students to the key data generation methods of current use in public health and health-related research
  • To enable students to choose the most appropriate research method to address a particular research question
  • To enable students to gain a basic overview of a range of quantitative and qualitative approaches to analysis
  • To provide students with the knowledge and skill to undertake the design of a health-related research proposal


Learning outcomes

By the end of the module, students will be able to:

  • Describe a range of quantitative and qualitative research designs used in health research and identify the advantages and disadvantages associated with these designs
  • Design an appropriate mixed-method research study to answer a health-related research question
  • Choose the appropriate quantitative or qualitative methods to collect data
  • Write a research proposal suitable for submission to a research funding body


Teaching methods

This is an online distance learning module. The teaching methods include guided independent study and facilitated discussions with constructive feedback.

Blackboard online resources, including reading, audio/visual materials and self-assessment exercises, will be used to provoke critical thinking.

In addition, synchronous small group tutorials will be held to allow students to share their knowledge and experiences providing opportunities to consolidate their learning.

The content of our courses is reviewed annually to make sure it is up-to-date and relevant. Individual modules are occasionally updated or withdrawn. This is in response to discoveries through our world-leading research, funding changes, professional accreditation requirements, student or employer feedback, outcomes of reviews, and variations in staff or student numbers. In the event of any change we'll consult and inform students in good time and take reasonable steps to minimise disruption.

Information last updated:


Four students laughing while sat at a bench, outside the Students' Union

International Merit Scholarships

We offer a generous package of financial support for international students including 75 undergraduate scholarships worth £10,000 towards the annual tuition fee and 125 postgraduate taught scholarships worth £5,000 towards the tuition fee. Applications are now open for existing offer holders.