This module is the second within the programme’s Research and Development theme and builds directly on Level 4 learning. It further develops students’ understanding of the research process, digital literacy, and critical appraisal, while strengthening their ability to communicate scientific ideas clearly and rigorously. Students are supported to design a research proposal focused on a topic of their own choosing, applying an appropriate qualitative, quantitative, or review-based methodology.
Teaching is delivered through a blended model, combining synchronous, in‑person lectures with asynchronous pre‑recorded e‑lectures that introduce and reinforce key research concepts and principles. Seminars provide practical support in database searching, scoping the research field, developing research questions, and guided academic writing through short, structured tasks. Academic supervision and tutorials offer tailored guidance, supporting evidence‑informed decision‑making and individual project development.
Formative assessment is embedded through group supervision activities and preparatory workbooks, guiding students through the conventional stages of research development. Summative assessment requires submission of a written proposal for either a systematic literature review or an original qualitative or quantitative study.