Professional Development

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University

Assessment

The assessment comprises two elements - a 3,000-word critical appraisal and a 15-minute narrated presentation.

Content

In this module, you will examine key topics including methodologies for research, how to design a research project, criticality in research, ethics, and how to share research effectively.

You will also study a number of key research methods such as secondary and desk-based research, experimental approaches, questionnaires and surveys, content and discourse analysis, observations, interviews and focus groups, as well as social media analytics and analysis.

Core to the module will be teaching on the use of quantitative and qualitative data analysis techniques, as well as other potential impact indicators.

Course Director

Dr Clare Wilkinson

E-mail

science.communication@uwe.ac.uk

Introduction

This online 30 credit Applied Research Skills module will provide you with the knowledge and skills required to design, carry out and critically analyse research in science communication. The taught skills will be relevant to anyone wanting to conduct social research using both quantitative and qualitative methods, as well as those seeking to the skills to evaluate public engagement initiatives.

On successful completion of this level 7 (Masters level) module, you will be able to:

• Critically apply the principles of effective research design and its relationship to research questions, as well as analysis;
• Demonstrate a critical understanding, of the purposes and limitations, of a range of quantitative and qualitative research approaches;
• Critically evaluate research within its appropriate methodological context;
• Recognise, illustrate and understand the need for ethical considerations in research;
• Identify and explain means to effectively share research via dissemination;
• Understand the contexts and approaches that can be taken for research to demonstrate impact.

Learning and Teaching

The module will be taught through 20 weeks of online content. This will include narrated presentations, self-directed learning activities (including designated reading), problem-based learning, discussion forums, wikis, asynchronous feedback opportunities and/or live interactive seminars.

You will also be expected to undertake independent learning to build specialist knowledge in aspects of research design of your particular interest/relevance.

Study facilities

You'll have access to a range of online facilities to support your learning, including the University Library.

Get a feel for the Health Professions facilities we have on offer here from wherever you are.

Telephone

+44 (0)117 32 83919

You can also follow us on Twitter @SciCommsUWE.

Title

30 credit level 7 module