Research Methods & Statistics in Palliative Care 7MRSAC23

This module aims to describe and illustrate the methods available for research in palliative care, leaving students able to understand, appraise and develop research studies. Common research methods in palliative care are reviewed, including systematic literature reviews, clinical trials, epidemiological methods, survey research design (including questionnaire design), qualitative research methods, economic analysis, and integration of methods in palliative care research. Statistical and measurement issues in palliative care are also covered including analysis of data, statistical interpretation, validity, reliability, appropriateness and responsiveness of measures. Other issues involved in designing and executing successful studies are also covered; these include hypotheses generation, protocol development, ethical issues, presentation of results, writing reports and papers, dissemination and implementation of results. This module is the first that students complete and is intended to make them familiar with research methods concepts and languages referred to throughout the MSc course.  

• To have an in depth understanding of the differences between quantitative and qualitative research, and the advantages and disadvantages of both.
• To appraise the conclusions drawn from a research study and judge whether they are justified given the methods used and results presented.
• To understand the stages in study design and conduct in the specific context of palliative care, including the selection of the appropriate experimental or non - experimental design
• To assess the reliability and validity of instruments used to measure, for instance, quality of life.
• To understand and address the particular ethical and practical problems encountered in research in palliative care.
• To be able to write a research protocol and a research paper.
• To understand key concepts in statistics as applied to palliative medicine and be able to describe and present data appropriately

A degree in medicine, nursing or dentistry or a 2:1 degree in life sciences or social sciences. Experience of working in palliative care or an associated area, eg clinical or social care research.

4000 word assignment.

25^th September 2023 – 6^th October 2023