The Module provides the students with the opportunity to make a proposal and/or initiate action for change by undertaking an independent study which is, at least in part, original in concept. The Module supports them in the development of understanding and skills required to carry out a project of enquiry, such as to research and/or evaluate simulation-related activity, an extended critical review of the literature or a work-based change management project. The student will acquire relevant approval (where required) for their proposed work from their employing Trust/Research and Development Department. The student will then present their project as a 10,000 word dissertation for examination.

The aims of the Module are to provide the students with the opportunity to:

• Apply and reflect upon relevant theories and methodologies to support critical enquiry
• Explore and discuss theoretical approaches to simulated practice / change development
• Develop an appropriate awareness of ethical considerations and the potential for collaboration and reciprocation within research and/or improvement

All proposed projects will be agreed with the student’s employer. The Module leader will have oversight of project titles and working with programme leader, will ensure that proposals are fit for purpose and the correct ethical approval is sort where required.

Indicative content:

The Module is student-centred, so the content will largely be negotiated between the Module leader, supervisors and student. However, content is likely to include:

• Project - methods - theory and practice
• Systems of enquiry and analysis of outcomes, findings or developments
• Ethical considerations
• Peer disseminating of findings and outcomes; presentation skills and writing for publication

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this Module a student will be able to:

1. Demonstrate a systematic understanding of knowledge and research in the area of your enquiry.
2. Articulate the aspects and the outcomes of the project experience in a suitably prepared dissertation report.
3. Reflect critically upon how simulated practice can be improved through the use of research findings and enquiry.
4. Critically evaluate the potential benefits in the area of your enquiry, exhibiting appropriate and ethically-aware strategies for analysing and interpreting data.

Assessment

Dissertation: 100% weighting, 50% pass mark.
Learning Outcomes: 1, 2 3 & 4.
Outline Details: The project will take the form of either:

• An extended critical review of the literature, in which students will investigate the research and evidence base pertaining to a clearly identified aspect of simulated practice.
  
  OR
  
  
• A simulation activity, such as running and videoing a simulation, generating simulation models (e.g. debrief, scenarios), app development, VR software scenario writing; Plus, simulation practice-based publication.
  
  OR
  
  
• A work-based project, where students will implement and evaluate an initiative, with the aim of improving/transforming practice through simulation.

Formative Assessment: 1-1 Feedback from project supervisors.

Application Requirements

This is a total-course participatory learning programme, which means that each individual is expected to demonstrate regular, active participation on at least a weekly basis. This active participation and shared learning may be through introductory lectures, one-to-one supervision, group discussions (in classrooms or via on-line webinars) and various other presentations. The format of participatory engagement and shared learning spans across attendance, on campus, in real-time webinars and through on-line contributions, for example to tasks, activities or topics requiring responses on the virtual learning environment (Moodle).

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This module can contribute to the following programme(s)

P13991: MSc Interprofessional Healthcare Simulation