Paramedic practice is evolving rapidly, and in order to meet the challenges of the future in prehospital medicine, it is necessary to explore the evidence that supports current practice. This unit will introduce students to the concept of research and the underlying principles of research and the scientific method. An introduction to qualitative and quantitative approaches, their associated key methods and ethical principles of research practice will be examined. This unit will allow students to understand the terminology associated with research so that they may locate, access, understand and critically analyse research to identify appropriate evidence for their practice.

Unit details

Location:
Online Real Time
St Albans
Study level:
Undergraduate
Credit points:
12
Unit code:
HFB2104

Prerequisites

HFB1110 - Foundations of Professional Paramedic Practice

HHB1104 - Introduction to Public Health and Wellness

HFB1110 - For Paramedicine Students only. HHB1104 - For HBHL students only.

Get help

Find a different unit

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:
  1. Identify and explain the elements of research and relevant terminology;  
  2. Evaluate the appropriateness of qualitative and quantitative research methodologies;  
  3. Investigate research protocol design, methods of data collection, analysis, reporting and interpretation;  
  4. Retrieve and appraise appropriate research articles; and  
  5. Assess aspects of ethical consideration in research including consent and confidentiality.  

Assessment

Assessment type Description Grade
Test Test 1 (30mins) May include combination of MCQ, True/False and matching questions 15%
Assignment Part 1 – literature review outlining the introduction, focussed research question and search strategy (750 words) 30%
Assignment Part 2 – worksheet and literature review outlining key results and discussion (1000 words) 55%
Students are expected to attempt all pieces of assessment and must obtain a total aggregate score of 50% or greater to pass the unit. Feedback about performance of the tests will be provided in order to guide and support students in their future learning in the unit.

Required reading

Introduction to Research in the Health Sciences 6th ed.
Polgar S, Thomas SA (2013)
Churchill Livingstone. Elsevier

Where to next?

As part of a course

This unit is studied as part of the following courses. Refer to the course page for information on how to apply for the course.

VU takes care to ensure the accuracy of this unit information, but reserves the right to change or withdraw courses offered at any time. Please check that unit information is current with the Student Contact Centre.