Dissertation: Empirical Research or Systematic Review (APP753)

Enabling students to design and undertake a systematic review, or an approved research project, under supervision.

CPD for healthcare professionals

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Key features

This 60 credit dissertation module enables international and full-time students to conduct a systematic review and home and part-time students to undertake a systematic review or an approved research project, under supervision. It provides students with the opportunity to apply knowledge and understanding of research methods to a subject relevant to their programme award; and to theory, policy and / or practice.

Module code

APP753

Credits

60

FHEQ level

Level 7 – masters degree

Location

Blended learning approach with face to face delivery at Plymouth

APP753 module details (masters level)

This module aims to enable the student to demonstrate their ability to design and undertake a systematic review, or approved research project, report and present the findings, and learn further about research methodology through the process. Students will be able to apply their knowledge and understanding of research methodology and methods gained throughout the earlier stages of the programme, and thereby develop a deeper understanding of the application of research to practice.

Entry requirements

Applicants must have successfully completed module APP758 – Advanced concepts in research: methodology and methods (or equivalent)

Learning outcomes

At the end of the module the learner will be able to:

identify a relevant health or social care topic that requires investigation through research
design a systematic review or research project based on a critical review of relevant subject and research methodology
provide evidence of in-depth knowledge and skills in critical appraisal, data collection, data analysis and synthesis, presentation and interpretation of research findings
critically evaluate and contextualise their research and consider the relevance to theory policy and / or professional practice ensuring that sustainability-related issues are addresses as relevant
present a logically argued and clearly written dissertation.

Module dates

14, 28 November 2024, 23 January, 12, 13 March 2025.

Module dates may be subject to change.

The dissertation timeframe is normally from September until the end of August. Students are expected to have made significant progress with their ethical committee application where relevant prior to the start of the dissertation process. Students will primarily work with their dissertation supervisor throughout the dissertation period. In addition, workshops provide additional support for the write-up process and opportunities for peer learning. Students will also present their work to members of the academic team and their peers towards the end of the dissertation period.