Social Research and Evaluation Methods

This module will guide the learner to develop a broad knowledge of research families, research design and methods in social research.  The significance of ethics in research and additional ethical measures when researching with children and vulnerable groups will be explored to ensure to exercise a professional duty of care. The module proceeds by considering the importance of evaluation in professional practice and enables the learner to differentiate between research and evaluation. The learner will be equipped with the necessary knowledge to make informed choices regarding the selection of appropriate research and evaluation methods for different social care contexts.  Learners will be supported to practise safely and effectively within the legal, ethical and practice boundaries of the profession.

This module maps to the CORU Standards of Proficiency below: 

Domain 1;  Professional Autonomy and Accountability 

Domain 2: Communication, Collaborative Practice and Team working 

Domain 3: Safety and Quality 

Domain 5: Professional Knowledge and skills 

1. Develop a literature review and research outline by producing clear, concise, accurate and objective documentation (Proficiencies: 2.6, 2.13, 3.5, 3.6, 3.13, 5.5, 5.17) 

2. Describe a broad range of research families, their associated research types, methods and techniques and their potential practical application in diverse social care settings mindful of ethical decision-making and confidentiality (Proficiencies: 1.10, 1.12, 1.19, 1.23, 5.1, 5.2, 5.17)

3. Recognise the required elements of a social research proposal, the purpose of a proposal and the ethical approval process s to prioritise and maintain the safety of research participants (Proficiencies: 1.1, 1.3, 1.5, 1.6, 1.12, 1.15, 1.17, 1.19, 1.21, 1.22, 2.2, 2.9, 2.13,  3.5, 3.7, 3.13, 5.2, 5.17)

4. Differentiate between research and evaluation to support and develop quality in practice in social care (Proficiencies: 2.9, 2.13, 3.8. 3.9, 5.5)

5. Recognise the principles and applications of scientific enquiry, including the evaluation of intervention efficacy, the research process and evidence-informed practice (Proficiencies: 1.19, 1. 22, 2.9, 2.13, 3.6, 3.8, 5.5, 5.6, 5.17)