Research Methods HEA3102

Overview

This module is designed to enable students to develop an understanding of the research process and the nature and variety of research methods together with the need for an evidence base to guide decision-making process. The design of the module allows for face-to-face and blended learning. Its characteristic features are to encourage students to see qualitative and quantitative methods as equally valuable and often complementary and to involve students, wherever possible, in using and applying the methods rather than merely talking about them.

Module code:	HEA3102
Level:	6
Module credits:	20
Cost for new students:	£1000 for September 2025 to July 2026

If you are an existing student who is undertaking this module as part of a programme, your fee will have been advised to you by email. You can also check your fees online. For any queries, please contact [email protected].

If your tuition fee is being paid by a sponsor or you are a sponsor paying a student’s fee, you are required to send a copy of a purchase order to [email protected].

For further guidance please visit: Sponsored students – Edge Hill University

CPD-Apply NW

The CPD Apply NW Application tool is available to NWAS (North West Ambulance Service NHS Trust) staff only. If you are employed by NWAS you may be able to secure funding for your module(s). Please see CPD-Apply (nwas.nhs.uk) for further details.

Who is this module for?

Health and social care professionals, allied health professionals.

The module can be accessed  as a stand alone module. The module is a core module on the following programmes

• BSc (Hons) Clinical & Professional Perioperative Practice
• BSc (Hons) Clinical & Professional Paramedic Practice

What are the key aims of the module?

• To develop students’ critical appraisal skills
• To develop students’ skills in research methodology
• To gain an understanding of research methodology and its practical applications
• To have an understanding of the research process and related methodology
• To utilise the skills and techniques of research methodology in their work setting
• To have an awareness of SPSS.

How will I study?

This module is normally studied online over 11 sessions, one half-day session per week for 11 weeks. The module overall takes 15 weeks.

What will I study?

Research

• The nature of knowledge in research
• Methodological issues
• Applications
• Designing a research proposal

Obtaining the evidence

• Systematic reviews of the literature
• Critical appraisal skills

Methodologies/Methods
Quantitative

• Experimental
• Quasi experimental/Non-equivalent
• Descriptive
• Correlation

Qualitative

• Phenomenology
• Ethnography
• Grounded theory
• Introduction to evidence-based practice.
• Critical appraisal of research literature.
• Introduction to research methodologies.
• Critical analysis of research methodologies and methods.
• Preparation of research proposals.

Application of  research methodologies

• Qualitative data
• Tools to help analysis
• Research ethics
• General research ethics
• Randomised controlled trials
• Ethics committees
• Research governance

How will I be assessed?

A 4,000 word research proposal related to the student’s area of interest.

On successful completion you will:

• Demonstrate a critical understanding of the nature and validity of key quantitative and qualitative research methods
• Critically evaluate methods of data collection and analysis pertaining to the students area of practice
• Demonstrate skills to critically appraise published research studies
• Critically examine and reflect upon the process involved in the development of a research proposal, demonstrating an awareness and understanding of ethical and equal opportunities issues involved in research design.

Study dates and venues

How to apply

Module availability varies from year to year and will be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved. Places will be allocated on a first come first served basis. Due to the popularity of some modules it may be that the module is fully booked when your application is received. We will include your details on a waiting list and allocate you a place on the next available intake.

Applications for stand alone students will be open from 1 April 2025

For details of how to apply, please visit the apply page.

Contact us

For further information regarding module availability, study dates and costs please contact the School of Allied Health, Social Work and Wellbeing on [email protected].

If you have any queries regarding module content and your suitability to study please contact the Module Lead, Rebecca Newsam, on email [email protected]..

Pathways

This module is available to study on a standalone basis and it is a core module on the following programmes:

• BSc (Hons) Clinical and Professional Perioperative Practice
• BSc (Hons) Clinical and Professional Paramedic Practice