PALL9417A Independent Inquiry for Evidence-based Practice (9/18 units)

This topic is designed to develop students' skills in conducting investigations to answer a specific question or solve practice-based problems through an in-depth study of an area of personal professional interest. Students will build on research methods knowledge to execute an independent piece of work and by disseminating findings, contribute new information or perspectives to current thinking in a related area of practice.

This topic aims to provide students with the experience of utilising applied research principles to understand and answer a research question or solve a practice issue. Students will build on skills in applied research that can inform and enhance knowledge and practice in the discipline, develop project development, execution and management skills useful to the practice setting and develop the student's communication skills to enable them to communicate their findings in written and oral form. Students will apply knowledge and skills to demonstrate autonomy, expert judgement, adaptability and responsibility as a practitioner or learner.

1. Execute an independent piece of work that is designed to answer a specific research question or contributes to the solution of a practice-based issue
2. Demonstrate an understanding of a relevant theoretical or conceptual framework
3. Illustrate an ability to critically analyse the current literature in the context of the project
4. Analyse findings or outcomes in relation to their contribution to the field of practice
5. Produce a paper or presentation prepared for submission to a journal, industry or other relevant publication or a presentation to a professional forum