Module Code - Title:
CS6262
-
RESEARCH PROJECT
Year Last Offered:
2025/6
Hours Per Week:
Grading Type:
N
Prerequisite Modules:
Rationale and Purpose of the Module:
This module supports students in preparing for their dissertation in Semester 3. Through a series of structured assignments, students will define a focused research question, explore relevant literature, and begin drafting their dissertation. The module introduces tools and techniques for research planning, data collection, and project scoping, with an emphasis on aligning research topics with students' professional interests and capabilities.
Syllabus:
Identifying and justifying a research topic in health data science or connected health Formulating clear, contextualised research questions Conducting and synthesising academic and grey literature reviews Exploring emerging technologies in healthcare research Ethical considerations in research design and planning Structuring a research proposal: aims, methodology, and expected outcomes Communicating project plans in written and oral formats
Learning Outcomes:
Cognitive (Knowledge, Understanding, Application, Analysis, Evaluation, Synthesis)
On successful completion of this module, students will be able to:
Identify and justify a research topic aligned with their background, interests, and the goals of the MSc programme. Formulate a clear, focused, and contextualised research question relevant to health data science or connected health. Critically review and synthesise relevant academic and grey literature to support their research focus. Develop and present a structured project proposal, including research aims, methodology, and anticipated outcomes, in both written and oral formats.
Affective (Attitudes and Values)
On successful completion of this module, students will be able to:
Appreciate the role of emerging technologies in shaping contemporary healthcare research. Demonstrate intellectual curiosity and ethical awareness in the design and planning of a research project
Psychomotor (Physical Skills)
N/A
How the Module will be Taught and what will be the Learning Experiences of the Students:
Students will gain the confidence to innovate and apply their learning, as individuals and as team members, adopting a patient-centric approach to their decision-making and actions, to solve problems and overcome challenges within their healthcare system. This will be achieved via: classes conducted in real-time; participation in activities and workshops; the utilisation of web-based resources; assessment of the latest techniques, tools and technologies; examination and critical review of recent case studies and research findings; articulating proposals; and engaging in feedback sessions prior to the realisation of a solution or capability.
Research Findings Incorporated in to the Syllabus (If Relevant):
Prime Texts:
Pears, R., & Shields, G. (2016)
Cite Them Right: The Essential Referencing Guide (10th ed.)
, Bloomsbury Academic
Walliman, N. (2017)
Your Research Project: Designing and Planning Your Work.
, Sage Publications
Booth, W. C., Colomb, G. G., & Williams, J. M. (2008)
The Craft of Research (3rd ed.).
, University of Chicago Press
Creswell, J. W., & Creswell, J. D. (2018)
Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods Approaches (5th ed.).
, SAGE Publications
Other Relevant Texts:
Programme(s) in which this Module is Offered:
MSHEINTFA - HEALTH INFORMATICS
Semester(s) Module is Offered:
Spring
Module Leader:
katie.crowley@ul.ie