This 15 credit module, Quantitative Health and Care Research, provides an introduction to and critical examination of quantitative approaches in health and care research. It explores the key features of quantitative investigations by examining key terminology, ideas, and concepts in quantitative methodology. 

This module aims to equip you with the knowledge, skills, and critical thinking abilities to effectively engage with quantitative research methodologies in health and care research. 

On successful completion of this module, you will be able to demonstrate:

• critical understanding of the principles and methods utilised in quantitative health and care research, and critical appraisal of quantitative evidence.    
• understanding and interpretative skills of common statistic analyses used in primary research and quantitative synthesis (meta-analysis).

Careers / Further study

This module can contribute towards the PGCert Health and Social Care, MSc Clinical Practice, and the Professional Development Awards. If you have any queries, please contact the Professional Development team (pd@uwe.ac.uk).

This module can contribute towards the MRes Health and Care Research.

Content

The module syllabus typically covers the following:

• Types of quantitative research questions
• Overview of the characteristics, strengths, and limitations of quantitative designs
• Methodological quality and sources and types of data in health and social care
• Threats to internal validity in quantitative designs and how to minimise them
• Outcome measurement
• Quantitative analysis in primary studies and quantitative synthesis
• Inferential analysis (types of statistical tests)
• Critical appraisal of quantitative research
• Reporting quantitative evidence

Learning and Teaching

This level 7 (Masters level) module adopts a blended learning approach, combining interactive lectures and seminars with group activities to foster a collaborative learning environment and provide practice experience. Student learning is supported by online materials and activities.

Interactive activities will build knowledge and understanding through active learning. These sessions will help you clarify and reinforce your knowledge, interpret and critique published evidence, and actively engage in problem-solving exercises.

Online resources include recorded lectures, instructional videos, podcasts, statistical software, survey platforms, and open-source datasets.

Assessment

The assessment comprises one task, a two-hour in-class test to assess your knowledge and understanding of quantitative research concepts and techniques. This test will include a structured critical appraisal of an abridged research paper and interpretation of statistical results.

Formative assessment through group work, individual exercises, and topic-specific activities will monitor progress. Formative exercises are not graded but are designed to enhance your confidence in achieving the learning outcomes. The exercises will include short multiple-choice quizzes and structured critical appraisals. 

Students are encouraged to identify their own learning needs, which can be addressed within contact hours. Tutor support will be available throughout the module, both in-person and online.