Answering a research question in an effective and ethical manner is contingent on understanding which is the most appropriate study design to implement in a given situation. This clinical research module introduces students to common quantitative, qualitative and mixed-methods approaches, the principles and importance of appropriate study design and methods of critically evaluating research.
Principal module aims
This module enables students to:
Evaluate a range of potential study designs.
Select and defend the research design most appropriate to the research question being asked.
Critically examine published research.
Learning outcomes
Examine the application, merits, and limits of a range of quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-methods research methods.
Establish a method for identifying and selecting the most appropriate study design for a given research issue.
Discuss issues associated with the concepts of validity in research design.
Critically examine the effects of poor research design or improper design selection on outcome selection, measurement, and analysis.
Create a clinical research study and defend the choice of study design.
Evaluate issues concerning patients and public involvement in research
Demonstrate capability in the appraisal of published research.
Teaching Topics
The outline syllabus gives an indication of the sort of topics that will be covered in the module.
Designs and Methodologies
Introduction to Qualitative and Mixed-Method Study Designs
Quantitative Study Designs
Population, Sampling, Bias and Validity
Systematic Reviews and Evidence Synthesis
Choosing a Research Area and Study Design
Assessment
Clinical Research Design Report (70%)
A 2,000-word written report on the design and justification of a clinical research study.
Clinical Research Design Examination (30%)
A 60-minute examination of the fundamentals of clinical research design, comprising MCQ and Key Feature Problem questions. The examination of this module will take place at the end of the module.