Describe and implement the process of evidence-based practice using case scenarios. Identify and evaluate the use of different methodologies and research designs in healthcare research

This assessment involves the development of a primary research proposal.

Topic:

How do patients undergoing haemodialysis experience and cope with the restrictions related to diet, fluid intake, and lifestyle changes?

• Describe and implement the process of evidence-based practice using case scenarios.
• Identify and evaluate the use of different methodologies and research designs in healthcare research.
• Analyse strategies to achieve rigour and address the impact of bias.
• Design and present a research proposal to answer the stated question.
• Identify, apply and defend the use of appropriate strategies for collecting and analysing quantitative and qualitative data within specific methodological frameworks.
• Identify and analyse the principles of ethical research conduct and discuss their application in practice. 

Students will be asked to construct a proposal for a hypothetical research project Structure of the research proposal, please ensure each of the below sections are covered in your research proposal:

1. Abstract
2. Introduction including background, and clear problem statement.
3. Synthesis of existing research evidence to demonstrate justification for the study
4. Study aims and hypothesis (when appropriate)
5. Study design
6. Study Setting
7. Sampling strategy (detail recruitment methods, sampling method including inclusion/exclusion criteria of participants, sample size)
8. Data collection methods (describe how data will be collected e.g. by who, including instruments/approaches)
9. Data management & analysis
10. Rigour
11. Consumer involvement
12. Ethical considerations (highlight any potential ethical issues and how they will be handled). 
13. Significance (describe the importance, relevance, and potential impact of your proposed study on knowledge, practice, or society)
14. Timeline
15. Referencing
16. Appendix 

Grading criteria

• Abstract (5%)

Abstract succinctly and accurately summarise the proposed research with an appropriate weighting of each element

• Introduction including background and context and statement of problem (10%)

Demonstrates a clear understanding of the topic's relevance and effectively sets the context. Provides a concise, focused, and clear statement of the research problem/question.

• Synthesis of existing research evidence to demonstrate justification for the study (10%)

Sophisticated analysis and critique and excellent synthesis. Powerful argument for proposed research

• Study aims and hypothesis (when appropriate) (5%)

Aims, hypothesis clear, focused and innovative

• Methodology & Methods: Study design (5%)

Research design/ methodology appropriate to aim, fully described and justified

Methodology & Methods: Study setting, participants sampling strategy, recruitment and sample size (10%)

Study setting, Sampling strategy, including recruitment methods, sample size and eligibility criteria are precisely defined and excellently described

• Methodology & Methods: Data collection methods (10%)

Data collection methods, including use of techniques and instruments, are precisely defined and excellently described.

• Methodology & Methods: Data management & analysis (10%)

Complete and accurate plan for management & analysis of the data consistent with proposed methodology

• Research rigour (5%)

Issues of validity/rigour analysed and appropriately addressed in line with methodology