What will I learn on this module?
In this module you will focus on the role of the practitioner as a research user and you will have the opportunity to articulate and negotiate a Master’s level enquiry relevant to you and your practice. You will have the opportunity to make effective and systematic use of published research to inform education practice and/or policy. You will learn how to interrogate electronic databases efficiently and effectively analyse qualitative data and write up your findings. Through this process, you will develop your critical appraisal skills. This module enables you to carry out a very small-scale piece of research which you undertake with the support of the module tutor.
How will I learn on this module?
Sessions will include lectures, seminars and tutorials. You will learn through lectures, seminars and independent learning as you are supported to become an independent researcher. The lectures will cover theories and concepts that will enable you to participate in a series of guided tasks and discussions. The e-learning portal will provide additional learning support. You will be encouraged to engage with current thinking in this field through the critical evaluation of relevant research papers that will then be further explored within seminars. This ‘research rich’ learning approach will enable you to build upon previous higher education and/or practice experiences.
How will I be supported academically on this module?
Academic support for this module is provided by the module leader. The module leader will provide you with clear guidance about the module learning outcomes and how you will be assessed against these. Individual and group tutorial time will be identified during the module. Students requiring additional support can arrange to meet, e-mail or telephone the module leader outside of module sessions. The University’s Blackboard Ultra will offer remote access to materials and aids for support and learning and, in addition, tutors will respond to questions via the modules’ discussion board on Blackboard Ultra so that the whole group can benefit.
Support will also include feedback from tutors during seminars and tutorials.
What will I be expected to read on this module?
All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. Online reading lists (provided after enrolment) give you access to your reading material for your modules. The Library works in partnership with your module tutors to ensure you have access to the material that you need.
What will I be expected to achieve?
Knowledge & Understanding:
1. Demonstrate a critical understanding of the breadth
and complexity of planning a research project
Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
1. Negotiate and establish the relevance of your
proposed focus of study
2. Identify, reflect upon and critically analyse key issues
related to your proposal and focus of study.
3. Demonstrate effective engagement and
management in implementation of the study.
4. Report the outcomes of the research as a critically analytical study to demonstrate enhanced
development of knowledge and make recommendations which reflect your findings
Personal Values Attributes (Global/Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity)
1. #Enhance your communication skills through yourdiscussion in your summative written work
2. Develop your research skills which will inform your discussion in your summative assessment
How will I be assessed?
Formative assessment:
Produce a study proposal outlining your proposed area of study.
Feedback:
You will receive verbal and written tutor feedback
Summative Assessment ::
A 4500 word analytical commentary presenting the outcomes of your study.
MLOs: KU1; IPSA 1-4; PVA1 &
Supporting material in the form of appendices may be included, including your presentation.
Pre-requisite(s)
None
Co-requisite(s)
None
Module abstract
In this module you will have the opportunity to articulate and negotiate a Master’s level small scale enquiry using secondary data. You will learn how to interrogate databases efficiently and effectively. The module will also provide you have the opportunity to conduct the study and analyse qualitative/quantitative data and draw recommendations on the basis of your findings.
Course info
Credits 30
Level of Study Postgraduate
Mode of Study 1 year Full Time
2 other options available
Location City Campus, Northumbria University
City Newcastle
Start September 2025
All information is accurate at the time of sharing.
Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning. Most courses run as planned and as promoted on our website and via our marketing materials, but if there are any substantial changes (as determined by the Competition and Markets Authority) to a course or there is the potential that course may be withdrawn, we will notify all affected applicants as soon as possible with advice and guidance regarding their options. It is also important to be aware that optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year.
Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.
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