HSO4008 Introduction to evidence-based research Research Report Assessment 1 Brief 2026 | RCL

HSO4008 Assignment Brief

Module Number:  HSO4008

Module Name:  Introduction to evidence-based research

Module Tutor/s: Eric Elong Ebolo , Dominique Porter-Whitaker ,  Ngozi Ibeawuchi , Zenzele Mazibuko.

ASSESSMENT

 Learning Outcomes Assessed

Use Of Generative Artificial Intelligence (GAI) Applications In This Assessment – A

Declaration: At the end of the assessment you should also include a declaration of any software tools including Generative AI (GAI) applications that you used in developing and completing the assessment.

Assessment Task:

Your report will be expected to address the following:

Investigate one area of health and social care by examining two academic journal articles

• Introduce/ justify your chosen topic by considering current research/ statistics in that subject area/ reference what others say about it – NHS/ NICE/ other authors etc.
• Introduce what research is/ the importance of research in health/ social care/ evidence-based practice etc.
• Explain qualitative/ quantitative research– what are the characteristics of each?
• Introduce your two articles– title/ author/ summary of each
• Using the two journal articles compare and contrast the primary research methods/approaches used by the authors.
• Discuss the validity and reliability of each article- How could the research be improved next time?
• How do the findings/ conclusion/ recommendations highlight a need for change/ improvements to practice.
• Make reference to a wide variety of text and online sources

*Please note- the LO’s do not have to be addressed in order and it is sometimes better if they are not.

Report Format

1.Introduction & Background

1.1 Introduction

1.2 Why is the research important in Health and Social care

1.3 Characteristics of quantitative and qualitative research

2. Research Article Comparison

2.1 Research article 1

2.2 Research article 2

2.3 How do the articles highlight improvement in practice

3. Conclusion

References (Harvard Referencing Style)

Appendix (if applicable)

Minimum Secondary Research Source Requirements:

Level HE4 – It is expected that the Reference List will contain between five and ten sources. As a MINIMUM the Reference List should include one refereed academic journal and three academic books. Please also use 2-3 references from core reading.

Specific Assessment Criteria:

(Please note that the General Assessment Criteria will also apply. Please see section 2)

First Class (70% And Above):

This piece of work shows evidence of wider research with reference to several differing academic viewpoints. exceptional depth and comprehensive understanding of the topic. The report has recognised relevantly and discussed in detail, all the required factors.  Several reasoned and logical arguments have been developed well and supported by a wide range of appropriately researched literature. Presentation is of a high standard, and in the appropriate report style.  The high number of appropriate sources has been referenced accurately and to a high standard. Exceptional coherence and organisation of ideas, showcasing a high level of academic writing and use of a wide range of resources.  Academic style and referencing will be excellent.

Upper Second Class 2(1) (60-69%):

A clear and informative piece of work with evidence of wider research and discussion. The research report has correctly recognised and discussed, all the required factors.  Some reasoned arguments have been developed and supported by a good number of sources.  A good number of appropriate sources have been referenced well, with most complying with the Harvard style.  The report will be well-structured, with a coherent presentation of ideas, displaying very good academic writing skills. Academic style and referencing will be very good.

Lower Second Class 2(2) (50-59%):

Students will demonstrate a satisfactory understanding of the topic and adequate explanation. The report needs to discuss the importance of reliability and validity in research. The report should have adequate comparison between the selected research articles, focussing on the LO’s. The report will be generally organised, with a good presentation of ideas, displaying good academic writing skills. Adequate references, indicating substantial research and engagement with relevant literature.

Third Class (40-49%):

A reasonable attempt has been made at researching the research report, but greater in-depth discussion and academic debate is required.  The research report has recognised some factors, however mostly the discussion is superficial and lacking in any depth.  Presentation of the essay is limited, and only the minimum of 5 sources has been provided, with at least one academic text and two academic journals included.

Fail (39% And Below)

Limited analysis indicating a lack of depth in understanding of the topic. Poor organisation of ideas and lack of coherence, demonstrating weaknesses in academic writing. Insufficient or irrelevant references, indicating insufficient research and engagement with relevant literature. Students who do not meet the requirements of a third-class grade will not successfully complete the assessment activity.

Grades

Please note that grades awarded, and summative feedback provided will be provisional until the Assessment Board has met and may therefore be subject to change.

General Assessment Criteria For Written Assessments

GENERAL ASSESSMENT GUIDELINES – LEVEL HE4