Accessibility statement

Clinical Research Methods - PSY00085M

« Back to module search

  • Department: Psychology
  • Credit value: 20 credits
  • Credit level: M
  • Academic year of delivery: 2024-25

Module will run

Occurrence Teaching period
A Semester 2 2024-25

Module aims

The first half of this module is focused on methods that are central to the field of clinical research that are commonly applied to studies of development and disorders. Students will be introduced to key research designs and methods in the context of current research into development and disorders. The methods covered will include case studies, cross sectional versus longitudinal designs, clinical trials and intervention studies, systematic reviews and meta-analyses, and service evaluation. The second half of this module will support students to complete an independent systematic review within the domains of development and disorders research.

Module learning outcomes

  • To explain key methods used in clinical research, as applied to development and disorders (including case studies, cross-sectional, longitudinal, intervention trials, systematic reviews, meta-analyses and service evaluations)
  • Be able to select the appropriate clinical research method to design a research study in this field
  • Examine the strengths and limitations of key clinical research methods and use this knowledge to critically evaluate relevant papers
  • To carry out the process of a systematic review and to effectively present the review in written format

Module content

  • Case studies
  • Cross sectional designs
  • Longitudinal designs
  • Clinical trials and intervention studies
  • Systematic reviews
  • Meta-analyses
  • Service Evaluations

Indicative assessment

Task % of module mark
Essay/coursework 100

Special assessment rules

None

Indicative reassessment

Task % of module mark
Essay/coursework 100

Module feedback

The marks on all assessed work will be provided on e-vision.

Indicative reading

Information will be provided via the module VLE site.


The information on this page is indicative of the module that is currently on offer. The University constantly explores ways to enhance and improve its degree programmes and therefore reserves the right to make variations to the content and method of delivery of modules, and to discontinue modules, if such action is reasonably considered to be necessary. In some instances it may be appropriate for the University to notify and consult with affected students about module changes in accordance with the University's policy on the Approval of Modifications to Existing Taught Programmes of Study.