This module develops the key skills needed to plan, execute and report research. After reviewing approaches to researching the literature and discussing the nature of current dental research, the key elements of a research protocol are introduced, covering issues as the nature and role of a hypothesis, experimental design, importance of clear deliverables and the use of project planning charts. In this context the planning of laboratory based research projects and clinical trials is treated separately and the consequences of poor experimental design discussed. In the case of clinical trials the significance of trial numbers and questionnaire design are covered. Statistical approaches for the analysis of experimental data are introduced, with emphasis on identifying the levels of significance of differences in data. This material is then used as a basis for introducing the critical elements of reporting the results of results. The structure and role of journal papers and research theses are discussed and student’s skills in producing and delivering research focused presentations developed.
Credits
10 credits
Module Attendance Required
Wednesday afternoons x 8
Module Dates
Jan-Feb Year 1
Assessment
Presentation of a research project.
Academics involved in the delivery of this module
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Professor T Burke
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Dr W Palin
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Professor D White
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Dr S Haque
Stand Alone Course
This module can be taken as a stand alone course if required. To apply, please contact Professor FJT Burke, f.j.t.burke@bham.ac.uk, 0121 237 2768 Lynda Malthouse, l.malthouse@bham.ac.uk, 0121 237 2768.
Applicants need to apply via the paper application:
Postgraduate Application Form
http://www.birmingham.ac.uk/Documents/students/pg-application-forms.pdf
Postgraduate Application Notes
http://www.birmingham.ac.uk/Documents/students/pg-application-notes.pdf
Postgraduate Reference Request Form
http://www.birmingham.ac.uk/Documents/students/pg-feference-request-form.pdf
Fee if taken as a stand alone course
For further information on fees please contact the Programme Administrator
Entry requirements if taken as a stand alone course
For further information on requirements please contact the Programme Administrator