The global shift towards evidence-based decision making and the development of a knowledge economy has meant that policy makers, managers and leaders are increasingly relying on research to inform strategy and policy, and to deliver high quality services. Research is a powerful tool that can streamline the process of policy, strategy and service development – it can help shape agendas, identify options, clarify barriers and enablers, aid design and implementation and finally review and evaluate performance. Research that is both rigorous and practical therefore has the potential to improve outcomes and maximize the efficient use of resources. Over a series of four modules designed to introduce and enhance applied research skills participants will cover the key stages of a research project including research design, data collection, data analysis and reporting.

The course begins with a 3-day introductory module that introduces the research process focusing on research design. It introduces different qualitative and quantitative research methods and the types of skills necessary for the planning, data gathering and dissemination stages of the research process. The second module focuses on research inputs beginning with an introduction to different types of data before focusing on the critical role of the
literature review. This module also includes a workshop on survey design. The third module focuses on approaches to analysing data through a survey of various quantitative and qualitative methods before concentrating on policy analysis. The fourth module concentrates on the writing-up and dissemination of results.

The overarching aim of the four modules is to enable the participant, particularly those new to research, to deliver research in the workplace that is both rigorous, and has real impact. Public and private sector professionals working in a variety of policy, technical or managerial roles could benefit from this course, which will build a strong foundation of knowledge, skills and confidence in designing, conducting and communicating research. Participants attending all four modules and successfully completing the required assessments will be eligible for a Professional Diploma in Research Skills.

Aims and learning objectives

The course aims to provide participants with the knowledge, skills and confidence they need to conduct and use research that is both practical and rigorous. These aims will be achieved through the following learning objectives:

1. Define research; explain and apply research terms; describe the research process and the principle activities, skills and ethics associated with the research process.
2. Enable participants to formulate clear research questions and develop coherent research design.
3. Equip participants with a basic understanding of a range of qualitative and quantitative research methods and their appropriate use and function.
4. Support participants in sample selection, gathering data and producing research proposals and outputs that are clear, engaging and impactful.

Learning outcomes

A fter participating in this course participants will understand the key stages of a research project including research design, data collection, data analysis and reporting. They will understand the characteristics of a range of qualitative and quantitative research methods and their appropriate use and function. By the end of the course, participants will understand the fundamentals of delivering research with impact. It is ideal for new researchers or mangers that work with significant quantities of research.

Course overview

The course has been designed to run over four 3-day modules and will consist of a combination of lectures, group work and discussion sessions. We will engage participants by combining high quality content with stimulating practical exercises and online support.

Who should Attend

Public and private sector professionals working in a variety of policy, technical or managerial roles could benefit from the Professional Diploma in Research Skills, which will build a strong foundation of knowledge, skills and confidence in designing, conducting and communicating research.  The four modules are designed to introduce and enhance applied research skills and will especially benefit those new to research who aim to deliver research in the workplace that is both rigorous, and has real impact.

Candidate can choose to take individual MBRSG Research for Results modules depending on your experience and interest. A certificate of attendance will be provided for each completed module. To be eligible for the Professional Diploma in Research Skills, participants will need to attend all four Research for Results modules and successfully complete the required assessments.

Modules:

1.        Research for Results: Getting applied research right 11 – 13 September, 2017
2.        Research for Results: Critical Reading, Conducting an Effective Literature Review 27 – 28 September, 2017      
3.        Research for Results: Survey Design 9 – 11 October, 2017
4.        Research for Results: Writing-up Research in the Field of Public Administration 23 – 24 October, 2017