Research Skills 3A module (BS31023)

In this module you'll learn about objective experimentation in scientific research. This is a research method designed to minimise personal bias and subjective influences. You'll also explore how statistical techniques drive hypothesis-led enquiry and observation. 

Through an immersive experience you'll learn advanced statistical techniques. You'll engage in experimental design, data gathering and analysis of outcomes. 

You'll also get unique insight from active researchers. They will share stories and experiences from their own analyses or graph productions. 

The aim is to connect your practical and theoretical knowledge to real-world applications. You'll foster a deeper appreciation for the varied use of statistics in human society.

What you will learn

In this module, you will learn about:

• designing experiments and testing hypotheses
• techniques for collecting and analysing data
• advanced statistical methods including:
  • generalised linear models
  • bootstrapping and permutation tests
  • non-linear modelling
  • survival analysis
• carrying out a literature review and using meta-analysis
• choosing and applying the right statistical models
• presenting and interpreting results.

By the end of this module, you will be able to:

• gather and explore data effectively
• use tools to visualise and summarise data
• choose appropriate models from a variety of statistical methods
• apply those models using technology
• understand and explain your results
• make inferences consistent with study design
• write up findings using accepted scientific formats.

Assignments / assessment

• computer marked assessment (focussing on data analysis) (50%)
• statistical report (poster symposium) (50%)

Teaching methods

• lectures
• workshops
• tutorials
• self-directed problem-based learning exercises