Investigating health and social care
In today’s world where there’s easy access to vast information online, it is essential for health and social care students to develop the ability to critically assess and evaluate research. This module teaches you the skills necessary to independently conduct a literature review (a type of research project) on a topic of your choice, focusing on ageing and older people or public health.
What you will study
This is primarily an independent study module. You will work through materials that guide you in locating, analysing, and reviewing research literature. You’ll also understand how and when to provide recommendations to improve health and social care services in various contexts. You will explore how to use academic databases for literature searches and gain a clear understanding of key research terms and concepts.
As you progress through the module, you will critically appraise and evaluate the ideas and findings of different authors on a health or social care topic. This will help you assess and synthesise evidence-based knowledge effectively.
You will learn
By studying this module, you will learn to:
- Systematically review research to enhance understanding of health and social care issues related to ageing, older people, or public health.
- Understand and gain skills in critical appraisal to evaluate the quality and relevance of research.
- Develop a literature review which will critically appraise current knowledge and research.
- Critically appraise the findings and viewpoints of a variety of authors on a given subject matter in current health and social care literature.
Professional recognition
This module is part of our BA (Honours) Health and Social Care and our social work programmes, and has been recognised as such by the relevant professional bodies.
Entry requirements
This is an OU level 3 module, ideal for students with experience in higher education and distance learning, obtained either through OU level 2 study or from equivalent study elsewhere. Prior study at OU Level 2, especially in health and social care, is recommended but not mandatory. The module materials are designed to be accessible for those new to the subject.
If you have any doubt about the suitability of the module, please speak to an adviser.
What's included
Your study materials will include a module text book and module website, which includes:
- a week-by-week study planner
- course-specific module materials
- audio and video content
- assignment details and submission section
- online tutorial access.
Computing requirements
You’ll need broadband internet access and a desktop or laptop computer with an up-to-date version of Windows (10 or 11) or macOS Ventura or higher.
Any additional software will be provided or is generally freely available.
To join in spoken conversations in tutorials, we recommend a wired headset (headphones/earphones with a built-in microphone).
Our module websites comply with web standards, and any modern browser is suitable for most activities.
Our OU Study mobile app will operate on all current, supported versions of Android and iOS. It’s not available on Kindle.
It’s also possible to access some module materials on a mobile phone, tablet device or Chromebook. However, as you may be asked to install additional software or use certain applications, you’ll also require a desktop or laptop, as described above.