SHE level 10 SCQF credit points 40 ECTS credit points 20 Module code MHB925801 Module Leader Claire Currie School School of Health and Life Sciences Subject School of Health and Life Sciences School Office Trimester A (September start), B (January start)
Summary of content The Honours Project provides students with the opportunity to carry out an independent research project relevant to their professional discipline, developing skills in evidence gathering, critical thinking, analysis and academic writing. Students will design and undertake a project by identifying a research question, reviewing literature, selecting appropriate methods, analysing data and presenting their findings. Project designs are dependent on professional discipline and may involve primary research, secondary data analysis, or a structured critical literature review. Students are supported throughout the project via a combination of cohort, group and individual supervision, alongside resources on the module’s virtual learning platform. The assessment output for this module is in the style of a journal article, demonstrating the student's ability to conduct and present research at a professional level.
Module details Syllabus arrow_forward The syllabus for this module is flexible to accommodate the diverse range of research topics and disciplinary requirements across programmes. Each student’s experience will be shaped by their professional context, regulatory and professional body requirements, and the nature of their chosen project. The research project will align to the student’s programme of study. The syllabus supports the development of research competence in line with HCPC standards of proficiency, professional body expectations, and the GCU Research Strategy, which prioritises applied, impactful research that informs policy, practice and service user engagement. Core content will include an introduction to the Honours Project process, covering the roles and responsibilities of students, supervisors and support staff, key timelines, assessment requirements, and academic integrity. Students will also be introduced to frameworks for research, ethical principles, and project management. Throughout the module, students will access discipline-relevant resources and support via GCU Learn. This includes materials on literature searching, research methods, critical appraisal, academic writing and data analysis.
Learning outcomes arrow_forward On successful completion of this module, students should be able to: 1. Critically appraise the evidence base to identify gaps in knowledge, justify a focused research question, and demonstrate how the research may inform evidence-based practice, policy and/or professional decision-making. 2. Plan and carry out an independent research project ethically and systematically, demonstrating subject specific knowledge, problem-solving, and adherence to appropriate protocols and governance. 3. Select and apply appropriate research study design and methods of data collection and analysis relevant to the research aims and context. 4. Interpret and critically evaluate research findings in relation to the research question, drawing evidence-based conclusions and identifying implications for practice, policy or further research. 5. Communicate research outcomes effectively in the format of a professional or scientific report, demonstrating critical thinking, synthesis of evidence and clear academic writing.
Teaching / learning strategy arrow_forward This module is delivered through a flexible, blended approach, with each discipline managed by its subject-specific lead. Each cohort will receive tailored lectures or workshops from their subject lead, the Academic Librarians, and the Learning Development Centre (LDC) Academic Development Tutors (ADT). Students will be allocated to a group with a supervisor, and supported through a mix of cohort, group and individual supervision. Students maintain a record of supervision and will engage in a group learning to support collaboration and peer learning. Seminar hours will be used differently across disciplines. Delivery may include on-campus drop-ins, live online sessions, or asynchronous activities with all supporting materials made available via GCU Learn.
Indicative reading arrow_forward Transferrable skills arrow_forward In undertaking this module, students should develop and consolidate skills in the following areas: Communication: Effective verbal and written communication skills. Information management: Accessing sources, conducting research, data manipulation. Information technology: Proficiency with relevant software and tools. Problem solving: Identifying and addressing complex issues, developing solutions. Independent learning: Managing own research needs, setting and achieving goals. Time management: Planning, efficient use of time, managing resources. Report writing: Structuring and composing clear, coherent reports. Critical thinking: Analysing and evaluating information, reflecting on feedback. Collaboration: Working effectively in group supervision, reflecting on group dynamics. Information dissemination: Sharing research findings in the style of a journal article.
Module structure Activity Total hours Lectures 5.00 Tutorials 5.00 Seminars 5.00 Independent Learning 315.00 Assessment 60.00
Assessment methods Component Duration Weighting Threshold Description Course Work001 100 40 Coursework equivalent to 4000-6000 words