Introductory description

Module web page

Module aims

Outline syllabus

This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.

The module will introduce students to the conceptual basis of evidence-based health care and provide an introduction to research methods. It aims to establish the skills needed to identify, appraise and synthesise research evidence and develop an understanding of the implications of research for clinical practice. It will introduce to students to research approaches including systematic reviewing, quantitative, qualitative and mixed methods research. It will explore the application of various sampling, data collection and data analysis methods. Students will use these skills and understanding to develop and design a relevant research question and a suitable research
plan to address the question appropriately.

Learning outcomes

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

• Critique the principles and practice of evidence-based health care.
• Identify and synthesise research evidence from a variety of sources.
• Critically appraise research evidence and demonstrate an understanding of the implications for clinical practice.
• Develop a relevant research question and research plan to address the question.
• Develop transferrable skills in research inquiry and methodologies to enhance employability.

Indicative reading list

• Ajetunmobi, O. (2002). Making sense of critical appraisal. Hodder Arnold
• Badenoch, D., Heneghan, C. (2005). Evidence-based Medicine Toolkit. BMJ Books 
- Chalmers, I and Altman, DG (eds.) (1995). Systematic reviews. London: BMJ
• Crombie, I.J. (1996). The Pocket Guide to Critical Appraisal. London: BMJ
• Dawes, M. et al. (2005). Evidence-based practice: A Primer for Health Care Professionals. Elsevier, Churchill Livingstone
- Gray, M.J. (2009). Evidence-based healthcare: How to make health policy and management Decisions. Elsevier, Churchill Livingstone
- Greenhalgh, T. (2010). How to Read a Paper. London: BMJ
• Howick, J. (2011). The Philosophy of Evidence-Based Medicine. Wiley-Blackwell. BMJ books
• Newell, R., Burnard,P. (2011) Research for evidence-based practice in healthcare.2nd ed. Wiley – Blackwell ‘vital notes’ series. Isbn: 978 – 1 – 4443 – 31127
• NHS Centre for Reviews & Disseminations (1996). Undertaking systematic reviews of research on effectiveness: CRD guidelines for those carrying out or commissioning research, CRD Report
• Nordenstrom, J. (2007). Evidence-based medicine in Sherlock Holmes' footsteps. Oxford: Blackwell
• Ross, T. (2012). A survival guide for health research methods. McGraw Hill, Open University Press. Isbn: 0335244734 (pb)
• Straus, S.E. et al., (2005). Evidence-based medicine: How to practice and teach EBM. Elsevier, Churchill Livingstone
• Whitley, B.E. & Kite, M.E. (2013). Principle of research in behavioural sciences. (3rded.). Routledge

Subject specific skills

Sound understanding of subject
Critically evaluate
Reflection

Transferable skills

Numeracy
Thinking and problem solving
written communication
oral communication
Teamwork
Organisation & time management
Use of tools and technology
Commercial awareness
Independence and initiative
Adaptability/Flexibility