Independent Work Based Project
COMMENT OUT ANCHOR
Research is an essential part of social work, health and social care. It would be an important experience for practitioners to acquire the relevant research knowledge and skills and integrate them with their practice. This course therefore aims to facilitate practitioners ability to design and carry out an applied work-based study.
The course tutor will provide the guidance and support for developing the knowledge and skills, e.g. literature searching, critical appraisal of research evidences, developing research design, conducting data analysis, and discussion of findings, necessary for conducting the work-based study. A plan of online and tutorial contact will be negotiated between practitioner and tutor. Upon completion of this course, practitioners will be equipped and supported to develop as evidence-based practitioners.
Course Information
Start Applications open May 2026 for autumn intake
Sector
Social Work and Education
Course Outline
Learning Environment
Entry Requirements
Key Learning Outcomes
Academic Expertise
Fees and Funding
Enquiries
Tutorials will provide the guidance you need to develop the necessary research skills to progress your project including literature searching, evaluation of evidence and analysis of data and information from a range of sources. You will be able to design and carry out an applied study demonstrating understanding and use of research evidence. You will develop both generic and specific knowledge areas and research skills that will vary according to the topic of investigation. It will be flexibly delivered to reflect its work-based nature. A plan of online and tutorial contact will be negotiated between learner and tutor. The learning, teaching and assessment strategy will support the learner to develop as evidence-based practitioners. Practitioners will also make use of library and electronic resources that can aid work-based learning. Teaching hours: 10 hours tutorial time (additional hours can be negotiated with module leader if required).
The module can be undertaken by students who have a degree. Level and range of experience can be variable but it particularly facilitates the ability of experienced practitioners/managers to explore in more detail areas of practice of interest to them or their employing agency.
Knowledge and understanding:
1. Using a sound evidence base, critically appraise and apply their understanding of the current state of knowledge regarding their chosen issue.
2. Assess and critically evaluate the complexity of factors relating to your recommendations for service improvement or professional practice including a service user perspective.
Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
3. Critically review, analyse and apply research findings relating to your chosen topic.
4. Organise and write a focussed, articulate and coherently argued report.
Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
5. Critically reflect on your learning and professional development in the light of completing the module.
Programme Lead Dr Carole Southall carole.southall@northumbria.ac.uk
Module leader: Dr Wallace Chan wallace.chan@northumbria.ac.uk
£500 per person
