Research Project (Dissertation)Module Details

Rationale

The Research Project course is the end point of the programme. Research in nursing is conducted so as to provide better insights about human health in general along with the various topics covered through the whole duration of the programme. It enables students to consolidate and demonstrate their learning and apply the principles of problem identification, critical thinking and evidence-based practice in an area related to their field of nursing practice. Students may choose to focus on the challenges involved in delivering and managing safe, effective, and holistic nursing care, particularly for individuals with complex healthcare needs. This course provides an opportunity for students to refine and demonstrate independence in formulating research ideas, constructing well-reasoned arguments defending developments in practice. Building on their prior learning in research methodology, students will engage in critical evaluation of published literature and apply appropriate research methods to explore a topic in depth.  In doing so, the course seeks to equip them with the essential skills in project planning, design, analysis and critical evaluation. The research is conducted independently, under the guidance of a research supervisor. 

The aim of this course is to enable students to independently plan, conduct, and present a research project/dissertation that addresses a relevant issue in nursing practice, demonstrating critical thinking, methodological rigour, and the ability to apply evidence-based principles to advance patient care and professional practice.

Learning Outcomes (Competences)  

At the end of the course students will be expected to:

(i)    Critically analyse a specific area of nursing which presents a need or challenge for maintaining or developing clinical standards.
(ii)   Critically evaluate and analyse methodological issues and research findings related to the study.
(iii)  Critically review the underpinning theory whilst demonstrating a critical understanding of the implications of findings in the local, national, and international context.
(iv) Write a research proposal that demonstrates understanding of the research process and shows critical thinking in applying effective, creative, and innovative solutions to research problems.
(v)    Provide a plan for how to disseminate the findings, in order that these may influence the practice of their peers and colleagues.
(vi)   Evaluate the findings of the research and make policy, research, and/or practice modifications/improvements suggestions.
(vii)  Critically explore the ethical issues that influence research and evidence-based practice.
(viii) Demonstrate the ability to think and work independently and creatively to produce a nursing dissertation in a standard format.