HAR404: Innovative Designs for Research Impact (online)
This online module is led by Steve Ariss. It runs in the Autumn semester and is worth 15 credits.
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Module description
This module will ensure that clinical research practitioners are aware of innovative study designs. This will include consideration of project management, patient recruitment and retention, and delivery of the project. We will use real-world case studies from the National Institute for Health Research to discuss novel designs (e.g. multi-arm, adaptive, stepped-wedge trials and complex, mixed-methods studies) and how these might change approach to delivery.
Objectives
By the end of the module, students will be able to
- describe commonly used research designs
- recognise strengths and limitations of commonly used designs
- explain the benefits of innovative designs
- identify potential challenges or considerations when using a novel design
- summarise study designs in lay friendly language to potential participants
- illustrate how innovative designs can lead to greater impact
- describe how different study designs are appropriate for specific interventions or producing different types of evidence
- appraise the work of others and communicate this through peer feedback
- recognise key aspects of environmental sustainability as applied to health research
Teaching
This module can also be taken as part of the following courses:
The module will be delivered using a mix of synchronous (recorded) online tutorials, online videos, audio podcasts, written materials, and online ('text chat') discussion, which students can complete in their own time during the module.
Engagement with online text discussions will be a key learning activity and therefore a required component. Students providing peer review of other's contributions to online discussion groups will assess this engagement.
Fees and funding
You can find out more about fees and funding for CPD modules in the School of Medicine and Population Health at the link below. We accept sponsored as well as self-funding students.
How to apply
Find out what you need to do to apply for a CPD module in the School of Medicine and Population Health.
Contact
For more information on this module, speak to the lead academic:
The content of our courses is reviewed annually to make sure it is up-to-date and relevant. Individual modules are occasionally updated or withdrawn. This is in response to discoveries through our world-leading research, funding changes, professional accreditation requirements, student or employer feedback, outcomes of reviews, and variations in staff or student numbers. In the event of any change we'll consult and inform students in good time and take reasonable steps to minimise disruption.
Information last updated:
International scholarships
We offer a generous package of financial support for international students, including undergraduate and postgraduate taught scholarships worth £10,000 towards the annual tuition fee.
Applications are open for existing offer holders for programmes starting in autumn 2025.