Faculty of Health

This course aims to equip healthcare professionals with the necessary knowledge and skills for the application of evidence-based medicine principles and to develop attitudes of critical reflection.

To familiarise students with the methods and processes of critical evaluation, and how these can be applied clinically and as a self-learning module.

This module is open to practising health professionals with a first degree or equivalent.

Face-to-face 2d + 2d for critical appraisal sessions and critical evaluation of service. Once key concepts have been introduced it is important that these are elaborated and evaluated formatively. For abstract concepts, face-to-face discussions are often necessary. In addition, the enhancement of searching skills and outline of search strategies are better achieved using face-to-face teaching and guided practical exposure. Exploration and critical analysis of journal papers are best achieved face-to-face to allow interactive discussions whilst maintaining momentum. Finally, the discussion of application of evidence requires probing questions and student-tutor and peer-peer interaction, which is best done face-to-face.

Module session dates

12 September 2012, 24 October 2012 and 22-23 November 2012 (attendance is required on all dates)

Assessment

Production of a completed Critically Appraised Topic (‘CAT’). Justification and explanation of the steps taken in producing it (question, search, evaluation and application).