In this course, students will learn to design an education research project, focussing on the research topic and questions, appropriate methodologies and methods to address these, and appropriate methods of data analysis.

This course is made up of lectures and tutorials which take place in semester 2.

MED5135

50% - Mini-research proposal relating to design and/or methodological issues in education research using alternate formats of 800-1000 words or 5-7 minute video presentation or audio podcast. (ILOs 1, 2 and 3)

50%: Micro-reflection: A small reflective piece using alternate formats (short essays, video presentations, audio podcasts) 500 words or approx. 3 mins. (ILO 4)

Where alternate formats (e.g. video or audio) are selected, the stated word count refers to the equivalent transcript length.

This course aims to give students the opportunity to:

1. Develop their knowledge and understanding of methodology in education research and, in particular, the appropriate use of quantitative and qualitative methods of data collection and analysis;

2. Apply this knowledge and understanding in the design of research to address questions in health professions education.

By the end of this course students will be able to:

1. Identify research topics in health professions education and formulate and critique research questions;

2. Critically evaluate the appropriateness of quantitative and qualitative methodologies and methods to address specific research questions in health professions education;

3. Design a study to address a research question in health professions education, taking into account - where appropriate - such issues as sampling, validity and reliability, authenticity, trustworthiness, credibility and generalisability.

4. Critically reflect on personal practice in course or education research.