Course Catalogue

Public and Allied Health

After completing the module the student should be able to demonstrate a critical understanding of a range of research methods and sources of evidence to develop a research proposal within the parameters of legal and ethical protocols.

Outline Syllabus:Overview of research and debate in social work in relation to the nature and role of evaluation and research methods. Review of a range of methodologies and research methods and case studies of research related to social work, including practitioner research. The problems and dilemmas of data collection and data analysis. Ethical issues and social work values in research: moral and social theory; Designing a research proposal for a Master's level dissertation module: empirical and theoretical issues. Introduction to Research Ethics & Governance Reviewing Literature Methodology Undertaking Interviews Undertaking Focus Groups Undertaking Participatory Action Research Visual Methods Survey Design Writing a research Proposal / Ethics Application Online Training

Module Overview:
After completing this module you will be able to demonstrate critical understanding of a range of research methods and sources of evidence, to develop a research proposal within the parameters of legal and ethical protocols.

Additional Information:This module aims to develop and assess the knowledge of methodologies and research methods, and understanding and transferable skills in the independent investigation, research, communication and evaluation of issues related to effective and ethical professional practice and policy. The module will provide feedback for students in relation to the development of the research proposal and their ethics application and approval, thus preparing them for the dissertation module. The module Learning Outcomes (LO) aim to address aspects of Social Work England's Professional Standards. LO 1 Critically review available sources of literature to develop appropriate research questions and research proposal 3.5 Hold different explanations in mind and use evidence to inform my decisions. 3.2 Use information from a range of appropriate sources, including supervision, to inform assessments, to analyse risk, and to make a professional decision. 3.5 Hold different explanations in mind and use evidence to inform my decisions. 3.7 Recognise where there may be bias in decision making and address issues that arise from ethical dilemmas, conflicting information, or differing professional decisions. 4.4 Demonstrate good subject knowledge on key aspects of social work practice and develop knowledge of current issues in society and social policies impacting on social work. 4.5 Contribute to an open and creative learning culture in the workplace to discuss, reflect on and share best practice. LO 2 Critically apply research methodologies and methods to carry out research consistent with values of social justice and anti-oppressive practice 1.6 Promote social justice, helping to confront and resolve issues of inequality and inclusion. 3.1 Work within legal and ethical frameworks, using my professional authority and judgement appropriately. 4.1 Incorporate feedback from a range of sources, including from people with lived experience of my social work practice. 5.6 Use technology, social media or other forms of electronic communication unlawfully, unethically, or in a way that brings the profession into disrepute. LO 3 Critically analyse the ethical dimensions of research 3.14 Assess the influence of cultural and social factors over people and the effect of loss, change and uncertainty in the development of resilience. 4.3 Keep my practice up to date and record how I use research, theories and frameworks to inform my practice and my professional judgement. 3.10 Establish and maintain skills in information and communication technology and adapt my practice to new ways of working, as appropriate.