Quality Improvement in Action module (PN50213)
Critically evaluate improvement science theory and put quality improvement methods into action, developing a real workplace project to enhance patient safety and service delivery
Quality improvement is at the heart of safe, effective healthcare delivery. This module gives you a solid foundation in improvement science and the tools and methods used to drive change.
You'll trace the development of improvement science, examine the drivers for quality improvement, and explore how culture, leadership, and the human dimensions of change shape the success of improvement projects. You'll also study measurement: how to use run charts and statistical process control to understand variation in data and track the impact of your work.
The module is fully online via My Dundee. It is designed for healthcare professionals who are currently working in a relevant role, and the assessment asks you to apply your learning to a quality improvement project in your own workplace.
What you will learn
In this module, you will:
- critically evaluate the theoretical background to improvement science
- explore the drivers for quality improvement and how culture and hierarchy can influence change
- examine improvement methodologies such as Model for Improvement, Lean, and Six Sigma
- use tools to measure variation in data, including run charts and statistical process control charts
By the end of this module, you will be able to:
- critically discuss the concept of improvement science in relation to patient safety
- compare and contrast quality improvement methodologies and tools
- critically analyse and evaluate the quality improvement journey in your workplace, considering the effects of culture and hierarchy
- use critical reflection on your learning to shape appropriate quality improvement strategies in your workplace
Assignments / assessments
Coursework (100%)
- A 2,000-word patchwork assignment in four parts: Background Context and Drivers (500 words), Quality Improvement Methodology (500 words), Results (700 words), and Critical Reflection (300 words)
This module does not have a final exam.
Teaching methods / timetable
- Online lectures and master classes via My Dundee
- Online tutorials
- Discussion boards, blogs, and Padlets
Courses
This module is available on the following courses:
Module lead
- Type
- Person
