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Getting started with research
Dr Leslie GellingReader in Nursing, Anglia Ruskin University
Vice-Chair, Anglia Ruskin Nursing Research Unit (ARNRU)
Developing a research protocol
An essential part of the research process. A clear description of how the research will be
conducted. Required for research funding bids and
applications to RECs. Format can vary but they usually share a number
of common elements, including …
Common structure of theresearch protocol
1. Title
2. Summary
3. Background and context
4. Literature review
5. Research question, aims and objectives
6. Justification for the research
7. Research question, aims and objectives
8. Methods
9. Research team
10. Ethical considerations
11. Budget
12. Dissemination of findings
13. Schedule
Common structure of theresearch protocol
1. Title
2. Summary
3. Background and context
4. Literature review
5. Research question, aims and objectives
6. Justification for the research
7. Research question, aims and objectives
8. Methods
9. Research team
10. Ethical considerations
11. Budget
12. Dissemination of findings
13. Schedule
Searching and evaluating the research literature
Critically reviewing the literature is a skill that needs to be learned and developed.
Consider the strengths and weaknesses of the existing literature. Review frameworks are available to help reviewers establish the
quality of a piece of research. Not all published research is good and there is much good
unpublished research. Exploring the literature should continue throughout the research. What is the gap in existing knowledge?
Developing the research question
Broad ideas need to be turned into research question. They will be refined by a critical review of the literature. Questions need to be sufficiently focused and answerable. Don’t have too many questions. Should follow logically from the review of the literature. Are often revised multiple times.
Selecting the most appropriate research approach
(methodology)
MixedMethodsResearch
Selecting the appropriateresearch methods
Determined by the research question, the literature review and the selected methodology.
May be influenced by the researcher’s experience but must there must be a fit between the methodology and methods.
Don’t try to do too much in the time available. Must allow the researcher to answer the research
question.
Do you need a pilot study?
A smaller study is undertaken to test:
The effectiveness of sampling and recruitment. Data collection techniques. Feasibility of the research.
Research ethics and other approvals must be in place and may need amending as a result of the pilot study.
Sampling and recruitment
Sampling involves identifying a representative study population from the target population.
Sampling can be probability or non-probability. Once the sample is determined the researcher can
commence recruitment. Sample size?
Data collection
Determined by methodological approach. Data collected must allow the researcher to answer
the research question. Qualitative – interviews, focus groups, observations. Quantitative – questionnaires, observation. Regardless of type of data, it should be collected
systematically.
Data analysis
Qualitative data Quantitative dataCan be analysed as an ongoing process during data collection.
Data is usually collected before data analysis begins.
Analysed thematically. Analysed using predetermined tests.
Software is available to support analysis.
Data is analysed using SPSS, Excel, etc.
Data is presented thematically using examples of data (quotes).
Data is presented numerically, supported by graphs and tables.
Should seek to answer the research question.
Should seek to answer the research question.
Dissemination and implementation
of findings
All research is worthless if findings, including negative findings, are not disseminated and shared.
Should be part of planning the research. Most common means of disseminations are journal
papers and conference presentations/posters. But now many other options available. Sharing findings with research participants/patients.
Planning a research schedule
From the outset, be sure you have a clear and realistic schedule.
Include all parts of the research, including approvals, writing up and dissemination.
Can be adjusted as the research progresses.
Obtaining research ethics and governance approvals
All research involving human participants will need research ethics approval from an appropriate REC.
Access approval. Time required to obtain these approvals should not
be underestimated. Valuable experience, requiring researchers to
consider all parts of their research.
Obtaining research funding
All research has a cost so consider how the research will be funded.
Do you need to bid for funding? Start small. Collaborate with experienced research teams to
learn the ropes.
Academic, peer and social support
Research is seldom undertaken in isolation. The best research involves research teams with
multiple areas of expertise. Academic support. Isolation. Writing up.
Additional resources
Methodology texts: Gerrish K, Lathlean, J (2015) The
research process in nursing. 7th Edition. Oxford, Wiley-Blackwell.
‘Nurse Researcher’ ‘Journal of Clinical Nursing’ or
‘Journal of Advanced Nursing’