Learning Outcomes:
On completion of this module students should be able to:
• Understand the importance of research to inform policy and practice in the social sciences generally and in social work contexts specifically
• Acquire an understanding of a range of research methods and frameworks in undertaking social research
• Develop the skills required to critically evaluate academic journal articles and other published findings
• Develop an understanding of 'the hierarchy of research evidence'
• Develop an understanding of research ethics and of researching topics considered to be sensitive
• Be familiar with large quantitative data sets relevant for social research
• Develop the necessary skills for undertaking a literature search
• Develop the necessary research skills for undertaking a literature review
• Demonstrate the ability to prepare a comprehensive research proposal
This module also satisfies the requirements for the following CORU Domains:
Domain1. Professional Autonomy and Accountability
18. Recognise personal responsibility and professional accountability for one’s actions and be able to justify professional decisions made
Domain 3. Safety and Quality
6. Be able to demonstrate an evidence-informed approach to professional decision-making, adapting practice to the needs of the service user and draw on appropriate knowledge and skills in order to make professional judgements
9. Understand the need to monitor, evaluate and/or audit the quality of practice and be able to critically evaluate one’s own practice against evidence-based standards and implement improvements based on the findings of these audits and reviews
Domain 5. Professional Knowledge and Skills
2. Demonstrate a critical understanding of social research, including consideration in a global context
9. Demonstrate an awareness and critical understanding of how social work practice is influenced by regulations, national guidelines and standards, findings of inquiries, investigations, associated reports; issues and trends in public and policy development; and be able to access new and emerging information which affects social work practice
21. Know and critically understand the principles, ethics and applications of scientific enquiry, including the evaluation of treatment/intervention efficacy, the research process and evidence-informed practice
25. Demonstrate ability to participate in clinical, academic or practice-based research