This module will cover research design in pharmacy. This will include the differences, strengths and limitations of qualitative, quantitative and mixed-method research methodologies.

Different research designs include randomised control trials, observational studies, prospective and retrospective studies, focus group studies, interview studies and qualitative observational studies.

This module will cover how patients and the public can assist in plan, data collection and analysis to improve patient outcomes of research. It will introduce ethical considerations, the importance of consent and confidentiality, data protection and other key considerations for recruitment and working with patients and the public.

Topics covered in this module will be explored in greater depth in modules 5, 6, 7 and 8.

Estimated completion time: 60 minutes

Learning objectives

Upon completion of this module you will be able to:

1. Describe the principles of research design
2. Explain the importance of having a plan that addresses the research question
3. Identify different research methods and their main features
4. Understand the strengths and limitations of different types of research methods
5. Describe key principles and procedures in quantitative and qualitative research and what to consider when collecting, analysing and interpreting data.