OPT063 - Research Project

This module forms a compulsory part of the MSc in Clinical Optometry, in which you complete a project through advanced study or research.

For this module, you must complete a research project or systematic literature review in an area relevant to optometry, and write up a report (up to 20,000 words).

MSc project topics can be suggested by the student or chosen from a list provided by staff. The topic for research is agreed between the module leader, proposed supervisor(s) and the student.

Learning objectives

On completion of the module you should be able to:

• search for appropriate information whilst maintaining a critical approach to the available literature
• demonstrate expertise in your chosen subject area
• demonstrate an understanding of research methodology and study design
• show a deep understanding of the techniques and rationale used in your research
• understand the analysis of experimental data
• demonstrate an awareness of other statistical approaches to data analysis
• show understanding of results and conclusions of the work, and its limitations (as appropriate)
• relate the findings to those of other researchers and current optometric practice

How the module will be delivered

Independent study is key to this module and is fully supported by the supervisors and course team.

You will attend an introductory seminar, with the module leader and prospective supervisor(s) to explain the module and the expectations of the supervisor(s). The frequency of communication and/or meetings between you and the supervisor(s) will be determined on an individual basis - regular communication with your supervisor(s) is the key to success.

You will be directed to appropriate resources and generic texts to support your chosen topic and your research skill development. From this initial learning, the research/review question will be further refined, followed by the development of the research project.

Skills you will practise and develop

Academic skills

• Advance your knowledge and understanding
• Collate and synthesise information from several resources to improve learning
• Write concisely and clearly for the academic and clinical community
• Interpret data

Generic skills

• Manage projects and time
• Work independently
• Use a range of IT software packages and online resources
• Problem-solving

How the module will be assessed

Informal formative assessment will take place at regular intervals throughout the project, via communication with supervisor(s) who will provide feedback on your progress. 

The assessment (100%) occurs at the end of the module when a written project report is submitted within the agreed time frame. This is examined by the supervisor and also marked by another member of staff in the School of Optometry and Vision Sciences. The final award is approved by the PGT Examinations Board (after consultation with the External Examiners).

The standard expected in research projects is that which demonstrates that the student meets the criteria for a qualification at level 7, as set down by the QAA benchmarks.