Introduction to Research Design
Credit points
(Generally, 1 credit = 10 hours of classes and independent study.)
Location
Online Real Time
Prerequisites
(Or equivalent to be determined by unit coordinator)
Co-requisites
(Corequisite units must be studied concurrently with this unit)
Overview
This unit provides an introduction to research methodology and how it can be applied to the dermal industry. Students will examine the importance of appropriate research design in evidence-based practice. Concepts include comparing and contrasting quantitative and qualitative research designs, principles of reliability and validity and their importance in measurement, and various forms of data analysis will be discussed. Students will be guided through the process of how research is developed, data collected, analysed and reports are written.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:
- Distinguish between qualitative and quantitative research methods and apply appropriate methods for dermal research projects;
- Critique dermal research study methods to design a group investigative project;
- Evaluate and apply appropriate data collection methods for the group investigative project; and
- Determine and apply appropriate statistical data analysis methods to interpret and report on research findings.
Assessment
For Melbourne campuses
Assessment type: Test | Grade: 20%
Online Tests x 3 (30mins each)
Assessment type: Assignment | Grade: 30%
Transcription and coding of interviews conducted for the group research project (approximately 2000 words - groups of 2-3 students).
Assessment type: Report | Grade: 50%
Investigative report: research theory will be applied to a group research project (2500 words - groups of 2-3 students)
Assignment and Report – Includes an individually assessed component.
Required reading
Readings and reference materials will be available on the VU Collaborate space for this unit.
As part of a course
This unit is studied as part of the following course(s):