SLT-10017 - Introduction to Clinical Research
Coordinator: Maxine Winstanley
Lecture Time: See Timetable...
Level: Level 4
Credits: 15
Study Hours: 150
School Office:

Programme/Approved Electives for 2026/27

None

Available as a Free Standing Elective

No

Co-requisites

None

Prerequisites

None

Barred Combinations

None

Description for 2026/27

This module forms the first part of a Clinical Research strand which progresses through the second and third years of study. The module will introduce you to the principles of evidence-based practice and equip you with foundational skills in the interpretation of both qualitative and quantitative data used in clinical research.

Aims
This module aims to introduce research theory and methods, including research policy, principles, terminology, critical appraisal and research design, in the context of healthcare. Apprentices will be provided with opportunities to understand descriptive numerical and statistical data. The module further aims to introduce apprentices to the concept of audit, the audit cycle and service evaluation and its importance in service improvement and quality of care. The concepts, knowledge and skills this module introduces are fundamental to most other modules in the programme.

Intended Learning Outcomes

Explain the basic types of research (qualitative, quantitative), basic research methodologies and the properties of data (types and distributions).: 1
Explain concepts of sampling, statistical power, type I and II errors.: 1
Demonstrate introductory skills in planning and implementing research studies.: 1
List the key stages within the audit cycle and explain the value of audit within health and rehabilitation settings.
: 1

Study hours

26 hours tutor led active learning will include:
~ 8 hours synchronous interactive lectures
~ 12 hours asynchronous lectures
~ 4 hours of workshops
~ 2 hours synchronous assessment preparation
124 hours of independent study will include:
~ 50 hours independent assessment preparation

School Rules

None

Description of Module Assessment

1: Class Test weighted 100%
80 minute online task
A computer based exam utilising various tasks e.g. multiple choice questions, matching, ordering sentences etc