This unit continues to develop students' understanding of evidence-informed healthcare and the role of research in clinical decision-making. Students further explore quantitative and qualitative research methods, including common statistical concepts and approaches to data collection and analysis used in health sciences research. Students develop skills in locating and critically reviewing peer-reviewed literature through the systematic literature search process. Using osteopathic patient cases, they apply research evidence to clinical questions and evaluate its relevance to patient care.
The unit provides a foundation for evidence-informed practice by strengthening students' research literacy, critical thinking and ability to use the literature to support clinical decision-making in preparation for future clinical practice.
On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:
In Assessment Task 1, students demonstrate knowledge of quantitative and qualitative research methods.
In Assessment Task 2 (Report), students develop a PICO clinical question, a search strategy based on Cochrane review methods and conduct a systematic literature search. The assessment requires students to access articles and export citations into a reference manager software, and to develop a literature review which answers a clinical question of their choice. In Assessment Task 3 (Exercise), students answer questions relating to qualitative data analysis and conduct a coding exercise, with interpretation of their findings.
Required readings will be made available on VU Collaborate.
This unit is studied as part of the following course(s):