Quantitative Research Methods in Nursing

The aims of this module are to equip students with the requisite skills to apply the scientific approach and the basics of critical appraisal to quantitative methods used within the context of research evaluating healthcare interventions. This module will introduce students to why research methods and evidence-based practice are fundamental to the role of healthcare professionals and what methods we use to carry out different types of inquiry. Participants will be supported in formulating research ideas and identifying appropriate methods to test their hypotheses. They will also become ‘critical consumers’ of research with the knowledge and understanding necessary to evaluate research appropriately. The module will introduce a range of quantitative research methods commonly used within applied health and primary methods. This will be followed by content relating to the principles of how we generate knowledge using quantitative methods, including learning about methods of sampling, data collection and analysis and how they relate to one another. Also, important ethical and governance considerations concerning quantitative inquiry will be analysed ensuring it is carried out with minimal risk.

The module comprises of the following 6 sessions.

1.  Introduction to Quantitative Research Methods
2. Research Designs and Sampling Techniques
3. Data Collection Methods in Quantitative Research
4. Measurement and Data Analysis in Quantitative Research
5.  Designing a Quantitative Research Proposal
6. Critically Appraising and Disseminating Quantitative Research

Hours of Total Learning for this module:

• Contact Hours: 27
• Self-Study Hours: 84
• Assessment Hours: 14
• Total Learning Hours: 125

Learning Outcomes:

At the end of the module/unit the learner will have acquired the following skills:

1. To become adept at using different quantitative research methods, including randomised controlled trials and cross-over designs,
2. To build experience in systematic data analysis using various software.
3. To interpret a range of topics including study design, sample size estimation, normal distribution, parametric and non-parametric methods, correlation, regression, graphical display and interpretation of data. 
4. To assess the sources of evidence routinely used as a basis for health policy and practice, including strengths and limitations.
5. Interpret and apply the results of basic statistical analyses and use appropriate tools to appraise the evidence used in nursing critically.

Each module will be assessed based on the following components:

1. Quality of Contributions in Forums: 20%
   • Evaluation of participation and the quality of insights shared in online discussion forums.
2. Quality of Contributions in Tutorials: 20%
   • Assessment of engagement and contributions during tutorial sessions.
3. Assignment/Case Study: 60%
   • Completion and quality of assignments that demonstrate understanding and application of the course material.

Passing Criteria:

• Students must achieve an aggregate of 50% or higher across the three components to pass each module.

Scholarship Schemes for Maltese residents:

• MySkills Scheme: Malta residents are eligible for up to 80% reimbursement, capped at €5,000, subject to eligibility criteria. International students would be able to apply for the MySkills Scheme once they obtain their Student Temporary Residence Card (TRC). (For individual modules only)
• Get Qualified Scheme ( Scheme available for Maltese residents ) – 70% refund of course fee as a tax rebate