Research Methods

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FACULTY OF HEALTH

Research Methods
Continuing Professional Development


BA(Hons) Counselling
Group:   January 2011
Year 3

HEA 3102



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HEA 3102

LO 1.   Demonstrate a critical understanding of the nature and validity of key quantitative and qualitative research methods.
LO 2.   Critically evaluate methods of data collection and analysis pertaining to the student area of practice.
LO 3.   Demonstrate skills to critically appraise published research studies.
LO 4.   Critically examine and reflect upon the process involved in the development of a research proposal, demonstrating an awareness and understanding of ethical and equal opportunities involved in research design.

It is the intent of the author within this assignment to produce a literature review based on the specific area of study, to demonstrate a critical understanding of research methodology, evaluation of data collection and to appraise research studies in the field of bereavement counselling of adults with intellectual disabilities.   It is also the intent to assess and evaluate the impact of research within the subject area on to current practice. The assignment further aims to present an awareness of potential challenges to issues relating to ethical and equal opportunities in the formulation of a research proposal.

The area to be investigated is that of the availability and efficacy of counselling or counselling skills to adults with learning disabilities who have experienced personal bereavement.   The reasons for the choice of subject matter were engendered by both personal and professional concerns.   Having worked for several years, specifically 1980’s to 1990’s,   in educational and training settings with adults who had intellectual disabilities I was aware, during that period, of a possible lack of availability of, or accessibility to, psychological therapeutic support to this group of people.   Recent discussions with...