School of Nursing and Midwifery
NURS6900: Introduction to Research in Health Care
Callaghan and Online
Trimester 1 – 2025
OVERVIEW
Course Description This course will introduce students to the various approaches to conducting research in health care. Students will learn about study planning and design and will develop an awareness of important considerations in study design. Students will also learn to review and critique published research and reviews of published studies.
Academic Progress Requirements Nil
Assumed Knowledge Foundational knowledge in the critical appraisal and utilisation of research; including quantitative, qualitative and mixed method approaches, to inform professional practice. Academic reading and writing skills, ability to access and evaluate information from a variety of sources, skills in critical analysis, critical judgement, synthesis and evaluation and expertise using ‘Endnote’ or similar reference database management program.
Contact HoursCallaghan
Online Activity
Online
2 hour(s) per week(s) for 12 week(s) starting Week 1
Self-Directed Learning
Self-Directed
8 hour(s) per week(s) for 12 week(s) starting Week 1
Tutorial
Face to Face On Campus
2 hour(s) per week(s) for 12 week(s)
Online
Online Activity
Online
2 hour(s) per week(s) for 12 week(s) starting Week 1
Self-Directed Learning
Self-Directed
8 hour(s) per week(s) for 12 week(s) starting Week 1
Unit Weighting 10
WorkloadStudents are required to spend on average 120-140 hours of effort (contact and non-contact) including assessments per 10 unit course.
CONTACTS
Course Coordinator Callaghan and Online
Lucinda Mithen
(+61) 2 4921 6322
Office: RW145, Richardson Wing, Callaghan Campus
Consultation: Contact via email to arrange a suitable time. Consultation will occur via Zoom or face to face in office
Prof Ritin Fernandez
(+61) 2 4048 4184
Consultation: Contact via email to arrange a suitable time. Consultation will occur via Zoom or face to face in office
Teaching Staff Other teaching staff will be advised on the course Canvas site.
School Office School of Nursing and Midwifery
Richardson Wing
University of Newcastle
University Drive
Callaghan NSW
Phone (+61) 2 4921 6304
Web http://www.newcastle.edu.au/school/nursing-midwifery
General Enquiries [email protected]
(+61) 2 4921 5000
Program & Enrolment [email protected]
Student Support For academic and personal support services for students, visit https://www.newcastle.edu.au/current-students/support
SYLLABUS
Course Content This course is presented as the following modules:
Module 1: Introduction to research in health care
Module 2: Literature reviews
Module 3: Quantitative study design
Module 4: Qualitative study design
Module 5: Mixed methods study design
Course Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
Describe the purpose of undertaking research in health care
Review and critically evaluate a published study or literature review using a recognised critical appraisal instrument
Outline the components of quantitative, qualitative and mixed method study
Identify and describe important considerations in study design including: ethical implications and vulnerable populations including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples and ensuring rigour in research.
Develop health care research questions and select study designs and research processes that are suitable for answering them
Course Materials Recommended Text:
Evans, D. (2022). Making Sense of Evidence-based Practice for Nursing: An Introduction to Quantitative and Qualitative Research and Systematic Reviews (1st ed.). Routledge.
Richardson-Tench, M. & Nicholson, P. (2022). Research in nursing, midwifery and allied health: evidence for best practice (7th ed.). Cengage Learning Australia.
Other Resources:
Course readings and resources will be provided via Canvas
COMPULSORY REQUIREMENTS
In order to pass this course, each student must complete ALL of the following compulsory requirements:
Course Assessment Requirements:
Assessment 1 – Written Assignment: Submit assessment item – Must submit this assessment to pass the
Assessment 2 – Quiz: Submit assessment item – Must submit this assessment to pass the
Assessment 3 – Presentation: Submit assessment item – Must submit this assessment to pass the
SCHEDULE
School of Nursing and Midwifery
NURS6900: Introduction to Research in Health Care
Callaghan and Online
Trimester 1 – 2025
OVERVIEW
Course Description This course will introduce students to the various approaches to conducting research in health care. Students will learn about study planning and design and will develop an awareness of important considerations in study design. Students will also learn to review and critique published research and reviews of published studies.
Academic Progress Requirements Nil
Assumed Knowledge Foundational knowledge in the critical appraisal and utilisation of research; including quantitative, qualitative and mixed method approaches, to inform professional practice. Academic reading and writing skills, ability to access and evaluate information from a variety of sources, skills in critical analysis, critical judgement, synthesis and evaluation and expertise using ‘Endnote’ or similar reference database management program.
Contact HoursCallaghan
Online Activity
Online
2 hour(s) per week(s) for 12 week(s) starting Week 1
Self-Directed Learning
Self-Directed
8 hour(s) per week(s) for 12 week(s) starting Week 1
Tutorial
Face to Face On Campus
2 hour(s) per week(s) for 12 week(s)
Online
Online Activity
Online
2 hour(s) per week(s) for 12 week(s) starting Week 1
Self-Directed Learning
Self-Directed
8 hour(s) per week(s) for 12 week(s) starting Week 1
Unit Weighting 10
WorkloadStudents are required to spend on average 120-140 hours of effort (contact and non-contact) including assessments per 10 unit course.
CONTACTS
Course Coordinator Callaghan and Online
Lucinda Mithen
Office: RW145, Richardson Wing, Callaghan Campus
Consultation: Contact via email to arrange a suitable time. Consultation will occur via Zoom or face to face in office
Prof Ritin Fernandez
Consultation: Contact via email to arrange a suitable time. Consultation will occur via Zoom or face to face in office
Teaching Staff Other teaching staff will be advised on the course Canvas site.
School Office School of Nursing and Midwifery
Richardson Wing
University of Newcastle
University Drive
Callaghan NSW
Phone (+61) 2 4921 6304
Student Support For academic and personal support services for students
SYLLABUS
Course Content This course is presented as the following modules:
Module 1: Introduction to research in health care
Module 2: Literature reviews
Module 3: Quantitative study design
Module 4: Qualitative study design
Module 5: Mixed methods study design
Course Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
Describe the purpose of undertaking research in health care
Review and critically evaluate a published study or literature review using a recognised critical appraisal instrument
Outline the components of quantitative, qualitative and mixed method study
Identify and describe important considerations in study design including: ethical implications and vulnerable populations including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples and ensuring rigour in research.
Develop health care research questions and select study designs and research processes that are suitable for answering them
Course Materials Recommended Text:
Evans, D. (2022). Making Sense of Evidence-based Practice for Nursing: An Introduction to Quantitative and Qualitative Research and Systematic Reviews (1st ed.). Routledge.
Richardson-Tench, M. & Nicholson, P. (2022). Research in nursing, midwifery and allied health: evidence for best practice (7th ed.). Cengage Learning Australia.
Other Resources:
Course readings and resources will be provided via Canvas
COMPULSORY REQUIREMENTS
In order to pass this course, each student must complete ALL of the following compulsory requirements:
Course Assessment Requirements:
Assessment 1 – Written Assignment: Submit assessment item – Must submit this assessment to pass the
Assessment 2 – Quiz: Submit assessment item – Must submit this assessment to pass the
Assessment 3 – Presentation: Submit assessment item – Must submit this assessment to pass the
SCHEDULE
Week
Week Begins
Topic
Assessment Due
1
20 Jan
Module 1: Introduction to research in health care
Why undertake research in health care?
2
27 Jan
Understanding research designs and concepts
3
3 Feb
Module 2: Literature reviews
Understanding literature reviews
4
10 Feb
Undertaking literature reviews
5
17 Feb
Module 3: Quantitative study design
Understanding quantitative research
Assessment 1: Friday 21st February 2025
6
24 Feb
Undertaking quantitative research
7
3 Mar
Appraising quantitative research
8
10 Mar
Module 4: Qualitative research
Understanding qualitative research
Assessment 2: Closes Friday 14th March 2025
9
17 Mar
Designing qualitative research
10
24 Mar
Appraising qualitative research
11
31 Mar
Module 5: Mixed methods study design
Understanding mixed methods research
Assessment 3: Monday 31st March 2025
12
7 Apr
Research in the health care setting
ASSESSMENTS
This course has 3 assessments. Each assessment is described in more detail in the sections below.
Assessment Name
Due Date
Involvement
Weighting
Learning Outcomes
1
Written Assignment*
Friday 21st February 2025, 23:00hrs Australian Eastern Daylight Time (AEDT)
Individual
35%
1, 2
2
Quiz*
Opens Friday 7th March 2025, 09:00hrs
Closes Friday 14th March 2025, 23:00hrs Australian Eastern Daylight Time (AEDT)
Individual
15%
1, 3, 4
3
Presentation*
Monday 31st March 2025, 23:00hrs Australian Eastern Daylight Time (AEDT)
Individual
50%
1, 3, 4, 5
* This assessment has a compulsory requirement.
Late Submissions The mark for an assessment item submitted after the designated time on the due date, without an approved extension of time, will be reduced by 10% of the possible maximum mark for that assessment item for each day or part day that the assessment item is late. Note: this applies equally to week and weekend days.
Assessment 1 – Written Assignment
Assessment Type Written Assignment
Description In this assessment you will review and critique a published systematic literature review. You will be provided with three published systematic literature reviews and will select only one which must be referenced in the assignment submission. The assignment will consist of short answer questions that will be used to critique the systematic review. The questions are adapted from the JBI Checklist for Systematic Reviews and Research Syntheses (JBI 2020). Further instructions and an assessment template (containing the questions) will be provided on the Canvas site under Assignments.
Weighting 35%
Compulsory Requirements
Submit assessment item – Must submit this assessment to pass the Course
Length 1500 words
Due Date Friday 21st February 2025, 23:00hrs Australian Eastern Daylight Time (AEDT)
Submission Method Online via Canvas
Assessment Criteria see Canvas
Return Method Online
Feedback Provided Online via Canvas 15 University working days after submission
Opportunity to Reattempt
Students will not be given the opportunity to reattempt this assessment
Assessment 2 – Quiz
Assessment Type Quiz
Description This assessment provides you with the opportunity to demonstrate understanding of key concepts covered in modules one (1) to three (3). The online quiz consists of 15 multiple choice questions. Once commenced, students will have 30 minutes to complete and submit the quiz. Questions will be presented one at a time, with no opportunity to revise answered questions. No marks will be awarded for an online quiz if it is not attempted or remains in progress when the quiz closes. Only one attempt within the designated week is available.
Weighting 15%
Compulsory Requirements
Submit assessment item – Must submit this assessment to pass the Course
Length 15 multiple choice questions, 30 minutes
Due Date Opens Friday 7th March 2025, 09:00hrs
Closes Friday 14th March 2025, 23:00hrs Australian Eastern Daylight Time (AEDT)
Submission Method Online via Canvas
Assessment Criteria N/A
Return Method Online
Feedback Provided Online via Canvas
Opportunity to Reattempt
Students will not be given the opportunity to reattempt this assessment
Assessment 3 – Presentation
Assessment Type Presentation
Description In this assessment, you will present a research plan on a chosen topic. The assignment is to be presented as a narrated PowerPoint Presentation. Your presentation should address each component of the research plan, integrating the required elements clearly and concisely in a spoken format. Use slides (a template is provided) to support your narrative, ensuring your presentation is professional and engaging. Instructions for assessment requirements including how to complete the PowerPoint narration and submission are found in Canvas under Assignments.
Weighting 50%
Compulsory Requirements
Submit assessment item – Must submit this assessment to pass the Course
Due Date Monday 31st March 2025, 23:00hrs Australian Eastern Daylight Time (AEDT)
Submission Method Online via Canvas
Assessment Criteria see Canvas
Return Method Online
Feedback Provided Online via Canvas 15 University working days after submission
Opportunity to Reattempt
Students will not be given the opportunity to reattempt this assessment
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Grading Scheme This course is graded as follows:
Range of Marks
Grade
Description
85-100
High Distinction
(HD)
Outstanding standard indicating comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the relevant materials; demonstration of an outstanding level of academic achievement; mastery of skills*; and achievement of all assessment objectives.
75-84
Distinction (D)
Excellent standard indicating a very high level of knowledge and understanding of the relevant materials; demonstration of a very high level of academic ability; sound development of skills*; and achievement of all assessment objectives.
65-74
Credit (C)
Good standard indicating a high level of knowledge and understanding of the relevant materials; demonstration of a high level of academic achievement; reasonable development of skills*; and achievement of all learning outcomes.
50-64
Pass (P)
Satisfactory standard indicating an adequate knowledge and understanding of the relevant materials; demonstration of an adequate level of academic achievement; satisfactory development of skills*; and achievement of all learning outcomes.
0-49
Fail (FF)
Failure to satisfactorily achieve learning outcomes. If all compulsory course components are not completed the mark will be zero. A fail grade may also be awarded following disciplinary action.
*Skills are those identified for the purposes of assessment task(s).
Communication Methods
Communication methods used in this course include:
Canvas Course Site: Students will receive communications via the posting of content or announcements on the Canvas course site.
Email: Students will receive communications via their student email
Course Evaluation Each year feedback is sought from students and other stakeholders about the courses offered in the University for the purposes of identifying areas of excellence and potential improvement.
As a result of student feedback, the following changes have been made to this offering of the course:
– Review and adjustment of assessments
Learning Analytics The University uses an evidence-based approach to enhancing student learning and delivering support. Our careful analysis of data through learning analytics informs decision making processes related to student learning, academic outcomes, and support services. Learning analytics may be used to identify targeted individual opportunities for additional support services or interventions.
Oral Interviews (Vivas)
As part of the evaluation process of any assessment item in this course an oral examination (viva) may be conducted. The purpose of the oral examination is to verify the authorship of the material submitted in response to the assessment task. The oral examination will be conducted in accordance with the principles set out in the Oral Examination (viva) Procedure.
In cases where the oral examination reveals the assessment item may not be the student’s own work the case will be dealt with under the Student Conduct Rule.
Academic Integrity and Ethical Academic Conduct Policy
All students are required to meet the academic integrity standards of the University. These standards reinforce the importance of integrity and honesty in an academic environment. Academic Integrity policies apply to all students of the University in all modes of study and in all locations.
Please refer to the Academic Integrity and Ethical Academic Conduct Policy
Adverse Circumstances
The University acknowledges the right of students to seek consideration for the impact of allowable adverse circumstances that may affect their performance in assessment item(s).
Applications for special consideration due to adverse circumstances will be made using the online Adverse Circumstances system where:
the assessment item is a major assessment item; or
the assessment item is a minor assessment item and the Course Co-ordinator has specified in the Course Outline that students may apply the online Adverse Circumstances system;
you are requesting a change of placement; or
the course has a compulsory attendance
Before applying you must refer to the Adverse Circumstance Affecting Assessment Items Procedure.
Use of generative artificial intelligence in course assessments
It is critical that any work submitted for assessment is your own original work. Before using generative AI tools (such as ChatGPT, Perplexity, Microsoft Copilot, etc) in any assessable work you must ensure that such use is in line with the requirements for the course and expectations of your Course Coordinator
Misuse of AI tools may be considered a breach of the University’s Student Conduct Rule and could result in disciplinary action.
Artificial Intelligence detection software may be used to review any work you submit. If you have used AI in any way other than has been expressly permitted by your course coordinator, you may be engaging in academic misconduct and be subject to penalties.
For information, refer to:
Generative AI Tools
Academic Integrity
Important Policy Information
The Help button in the Canvas Navigation menu contains helpful information for using the Learning Management System. Students should familiarise themselves with the policies and proceduresthat support a safe and respectful environment at the University
ASSESSMENTS
This course has 3 assessments. Each assessment is described in more detail in the sections below.
Assessment Name
Due Date
Involvement
Weighting
Learning Outcomes
1
Written Assignment*
Friday 21st February 2025, 23:00hrs Australian Eastern Daylight Time (AEDT)
Individual
35%
1, 2
2
Quiz*
Opens Friday 7th March 2025, 09:00hrs
Closes Friday 14th March 2025, 23:00hrs Australian Eastern Daylight Time (AEDT)
Individual
15%
1, 3, 4
3
Presentation*
Monday 31st March 2025, 23:00hrs Australian Eastern Daylight Time (AEDT)
Individual
50%
1, 3, 4, 5
* This assessment has a compulsory requirement.
Late Submissions The mark for an assessment item submitted after the designated time on the due date, without an approved extension of time, will be reduced by 10% of the possible maximum mark for that assessment item for each day or part day that the assessment item is late. Note: this applies equally to week and weekend days.
Assessment 1 – Written Assignment
Assessment Type Written Assignment
Description In this assessment you will review and critique a published systematic literature review. You will be provided with three published systematic literature reviews and will select only one which must be referenced in the assignment submission. The assignment will consist of short answer questions that will be used to critique the systematic review. The questions are adapted from the JBI Checklist for Systematic Reviews and Research Syntheses (JBI 2020). Further instructions and an assessment template (containing the questions) will be provided on the Canvas site under Assignments.
Weighting 35%
Compulsory Requirements
Submit assessment item – Must submit this assessment to pass the Course
Length 1500 words
Due Date Friday 21st February 2025, 23:00hrs Australian Eastern Daylight Time (AEDT)
Submission Method Online via Canvas
Assessment Criteria see Canvas
Return Method Online
Feedback Provided Online via Canvas 15 University working days after submission
Opportunity to Reattempt
Students will not be given the opportunity to reattempt this assessment
Assessment 2 – Quiz
Assessment Type Quiz
Description This assessment provides you with the opportunity to demonstrate understanding of key concepts covered in modules one (1) to three (3). The online quiz consists of 15 multiple choice questions. Once commenced, students will have 30 minutes to complete and submit the quiz. Questions will be presented one at a time, with no opportunity to revise answered questions. No marks will be awarded for an online quiz if it is not attempted or remains in progress when the quiz closes. Only one attempt within the designated week is available.
Weighting 15%
Compulsory Requirements
Submit assessment item – Must submit this assessment to pass the Course
Length 15 multiple choice questions, 30 minutes
Due Date Opens Friday 7th March 2025, 09:00hrs
Closes Friday 14th March 2025, 23:00hrs Australian Eastern Daylight Time (AEDT)
Submission Method Online via Canvas
Assessment Criteria N/A
Return Method Online
Feedback Provided Online via Canvas
Opportunity to Reattempt
Students will not be given the opportunity to reattempt this assessment
Assessment 3 – Presentation
Assessment Type Presentation
Description In this assessment, you will present a research plan on a chosen topic. The assignment is to be presented as a narrated PowerPoint Presentation. Your presentation should address each component of the research plan, integrating the required elements clearly and concisely in a spoken format. Use slides (a template is provided) to support your narrative, ensuring your presentation is professional and engaging. Instructions for assessment requirements including how to complete the PowerPoint narration and submission are found in Canvas under Assignments.
Weighting 50%
Compulsory Requirements
Submit assessment item – Must submit this assessment to pass the Course
Due Date Monday 31st March 2025, 23:00hrs Australian Eastern Daylight Time (AEDT)
Submission Method Online via Canvas
Assessment Criteria see Canvas
Return Method Online
Feedback Provided Online via Canvas 15 University working days after submission
Opportunity to Reattempt
Students will not be given the opportunity to reattempt this assessment
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Grading Scheme This course is graded as follows:
Range of Marks
Grade
Description
85-100
High Distinction
(HD)
Outstanding standard indicating comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the relevant materials; demonstration of an outstanding level of academic achievement; mastery of skills*; and achievement of all assessment objectives.
75-84
Distinction (D)
Excellent standard indicating a very high level of knowledge and understanding of the relevant materials; demonstration of a very high level of academic ability; sound development of skills*; and achievement of all assessment objectives.
65-74
Credit (C)
Good standard indicating a high level of knowledge and understanding of the relevant materials; demonstration of a high level of academic achievement; reasonable development of skills*; and achievement of all learning outcomes.
50-64
Pass (P)
Satisfactory standard indicating an adequate knowledge and understanding of the relevant materials; demonstration of an adequate level of academic achievement; satisfactory development of skills*; and achievement of all learning outcomes.
0-49
Fail (FF)
Failure to satisfactorily achieve learning outcomes. If all compulsory course components are not completed the mark will be zero. A fail grade may also be awarded following disciplinary action.
*Skills are those identified for the purposes of assessment task(s).
Communication Methods
Communication methods used in this course include:
Canvas Course Site: Students will receive communications via the posting of content or announcements on the Canvas course site.
Email: Students will receive communications via their student email
Course Evaluation Each year feedback is sought from students and other stakeholders about the courses offered in the University for the purposes of identifying areas of excellence and potential improvement.
As a result of student feedback, the following changes have been made to this offering of the course:
– Review and adjustment of assessments
Learning Analytics The University uses an evidence-based approach to enhancing student learning and delivering support. Our careful analysis of data through learning analytics informs decision making processes related to student learning, academic outcomes, and support services. Learning analytics may be used to identify targeted individual opportunities for additional support services or interventions.
Oral Interviews (Vivas)
As part of the evaluation process of any assessment item in this course an oral examination (viva) may be conducted. The purpose of the oral examination is to verify the authorship of the material submitted in response to the assessment task. The oral examination will be conducted in accordance with the principles set out in the Oral Examination (viva) Procedure.
In cases where the oral examination reveals the assessment item may not be the student’s own work the case will be dealt with under the Student Conduct Rule.
Academic Integrity and Ethical Academic Conduct Policy
All students are required to meet the academic integrity standards of the University. These standards reinforce the importance of integrity and honesty in an academic environment. Academic Integrity policies apply to all students of the University in all modes of study and in all locations.
Please refer to the Academic Integrity and Ethical Academic Conduct Policy
Adverse Circumstances
The University acknowledges the right of students to seek consideration for the impact of allowable adverse circumstances that may affect their performance in assessment item(s).
Applications for special consideration due to adverse circumstances will be made using the online Adverse Circumstances system where:
the assessment item is a major assessment item; or
the assessment item is a minor assessment item and the Course Co-ordinator has specified in the Course Outline that students may apply the online Adverse Circumstances system;
you are requesting a change of placement; or
the course has a compulsory attendance
Before applying you must refer to the Adverse Circumstance Affecting Assessment Items Procedure.
Use of generative artificial intelligence in course assessments
It is critical that any work submitted for assessment is your own original work. Before using generative AI tools (such as ChatGPT, Perplexity, Microsoft Copilot, etc) in any assessable work you must ensure that such use is in line with the requirements for the course and expectations of your Course Coordinator
Misuse of AI tools may be considered a breach of the University’s Student Conduct Rule and could result in disciplinary action.
Artificial Intelligence detection software may be used to review any work you submit. If you have used AI in any way other than has been expressly permitted by your course coordinator, you may be engaging in academic misconduct and be subject to penalties.
For information, refer to:
Generative AI Tools
Academic Integrity
Important Policy Information
The Help button in the Canvas Navigation menu contains helpful information for using the Learning Management System. Students should familiarise themselves with the policies and procedures at https://www.newcastle.edu.au/current-students/respect-at-uni/policies- and-procedures that support a safe and respectful environment at the University
