Professional/Short course Quantitative Health and Care Research

Content

The module syllabus typically covers the following:

• Types of quantitative research questions
• Overview of the characteristics, strengths, and limitations of quantitative designs
• Methodological quality and sources and types of data in health and social care
• Threats to internal validity in quantitative designs and how to minimise them
• Outcome measurement
• Quantitative analysis in primary studies and quantitative synthesis
• Inferential analysis (types of statistical tests)
• Critical appraisal of quantitative research
• Reporting quantitative evidence

Learning and Teaching

This level 7 (Masters level) module adopts a blended learning approach, combining interactive lectures and seminars with group activities to foster a collaborative learning environment and provide practice experience. Student learning is supported by online materials and activities.

Interactive activities will build knowledge and understanding through active learning. These sessions will help you clarify and reinforce your knowledge, interpret and critique published evidence, and actively engage in problem-solving exercises.

Online resources include recorded lectures, instructional videos, podcasts, statistical software, survey platforms, and open-source datasets.

Assessment

The assessment comprises one task, a two-hour in-class test to assess your knowledge and understanding of quantitative research concepts and techniques. This test will include a structured critical appraisal of an abridged research paper and interpretation of statistical results.

Formative assessment through group work, individual exercises, and topic-specific activities will monitor progress. Formative exercises are not graded but are designed to enhance your confidence in achieving the learning outcomes. The exercises will include short multiple-choice quizzes and structured critical appraisals. 

Students are encouraged to identify their own learning needs, which can be addressed within contact hours. Tutor support will be available throughout the module, both in-person and online.