

Research Methods in Health and Social Care

29 Mar 2025

Recommended

Minimum 30 mins

Course

Access

Certification

Voiceover

The Research Methods in Health and Social Care course is designed to provide healthcare professionals with the knowledge and skills to conduct and apply research effectively in their practice. Research plays a critical role in improving patient outcomes, enhancing service delivery, and influencing policy-making in health and social care. This course introduces participants to key qualitative and quantitative research methodologies and demonstrates their practical applications in real-world settings.
Participants will learn how to formulate research questions, design studies, collect and analyse data, and interpret findings to support evidence-based practice. The course also addresses ethical considerations, including informed consent, confidentiality, and compliance with governance frameworks such as the Health Research Authority (HRA). Whether conducting original research or critically appraising existing studies, participants will develop the skills needed to bridge the gap between theory and practice, fostering innovation and continuous improvement in healthcare.

Learning Outcomes.
By the end of this course,participants will be able:
To understand the principles of qualitative and quantitative research methodologies and their applications in health and social care.
To critically evaluate research literature and identify gaps in knowledge relevant to health and social care.
To design a research project, including formulating research questions, selecting appropriate methodologies, and planning studies.
To collect, organise, and analyse data ethically and accurately using established research techniques.
To manage research projects effectively, addressing both practical and ethical challenges.
To apply research findings to inform evidence-based practice, influence policy, and guide future research initiatives.
Course
Contents.
01
Purpose, significance, and key types of research (quantitative, qualitative, primary, and secondary).
03
Developing research questions, setting objectives, and addressing ethical considerations.
05
Organising, analysing, and interpreting data to draw actionable conclusions.
08
Translating research findings into improvements in health and social care practices.

06
Ensuring confidentiality, obtaining informed consent, and adhering to UK governance frameworks.
09
Demonstrating how research supports organisational goals and policy-making.
02
Techniques for gathering and interpreting primary and secondary data.
04
Literature reviews, conceptual frameworks, and managing research processes.
07
Developing hypotheses, selecting methodologies, and planning resources.
10
Identifying areas for further study and strategies for disseminating findings.
The Research Methods in Health and Social Care course equips healthcare professionals with foundational skills to design, conduct, and evaluate research effectively. By exploring methodologies, ethical practices, and practical applications, participants will gain the confidence to contribute to evidence-based improvements in health and social care. This course supports the integration of research into practice, fostering innovation and enhancing service quality across the sector.
