Developing a reasearch project Flashcards
(9 cards)
What are the key stages in planning a research project?
- Develop research question
- Define aims and objectives
- Write the research protocol
- Plan staff, time, funding, resources
- Seek ethical approval
- Design and pilot data collection tools
- Collect and process data
- Analyse results
- Write and disseminate findings
- Get feedback and plan next steps
What makes a good research question?
Clear, focused, and researchable; based on literature gaps; informed by previous studies and practical constraints; engages stakeholders for relevance and impact.
What is Public and Patient Involvement (PPI)?
Done with or by patients/public, not to or for them; improves research design, relevance, understanding, and communication; methods include interviews, focus groups, advisory roles.
What is the difference between aims and objectives in research?
Aims: Broad, long-term, aspirational. Objectives: Specific, measurable steps to achieve the aim (SMART criteria).
Example: Aim: Assess if self-checking injections is as safe and more cost-effective than double-checking. Objectives: Conduct RCT, gather perspectives, perform economic evaluation.
What is the purpose and structure of a research protocol?
Detailed project plan ensuring rigour and reproducibility; shows justification, methods, safety, follow-up, ethics, and dissemination plans; prevents bias and manipulation.
WHO-recommended structure includes: Background, Aims/objectives, Study design and methodology, Safety and ethics, Data analysis, Dissemination, Management plan.
How can project timelines be effectively managed?
Use Gantt charts to map activities, estimate time, and schedule tasks; build in buffer time for delays.
What are feasibility studies?
Small, early-stage studies to assess if the project can be done; help avoid costly failed studies; examine willingness to participate, recruit, and other design elements.
What are pilot studies?
Small-scale versions of the full study; test all steps in the research process; internal pilots use data in final analysis; external pilots discard data before main study.
What are the key takeaways from planning a research project?
Developing a good research question is complex and crucial; PPI enhances quality and relevance; comprehensive planning (protocol, timeline, feasibility) is essential; build in time for piloting and expect the unexpected.
