Developing a Research Protocol Program - PDP1006

Learners can enrol in a non-assessed version of this program or an assessed version of this program (i.e. microcredential). In both versions, the learner will complete a series of interactive self-directed online modules to understand the general principles of research and project design. They will then apply this learning to develop their own research protocol through a series of facilitated workshops.

In the assessed version of this program, learners will be required to complete a series of graded assessments such as submitting a finalised research protocol. The assessed version of the program is approved as a Monash University microcredential.

At a glance

Fees

A$1,600

A discounted rate of A$1,440 may be available to cohorts from a single workplace, if their learning is supported by more senior leaders at their workplace. Please contact us for more information.

We also offer a version of this program that does not include assessments. In this case, you will complete the online learning material and workshops only. This version of the program is not a microcredential and the cost for this version is A$1,300.

Who should attend

This program is eligible for healthcare professionals that are registered with Ahpra (except provisionally registered pharmacists i.e. pharmacy interns). Applicants will be required to submit evidence of their registration (e.g. certificate of registration).

Exceptions will be considered for individuals that are not currently registered healthcare professionals with Ahpra but who would benefit from completion of this program. In this case, individuals are encouraged to contact the Director of EDGE (steven.walker@monash.edu) directly.

The program is designed to support learners to develop a research protocol for a project relevant for their workplace. The online learning material and workshops focus on research methodologies most suited to a practice-based research project conducted in a healthcare setting. Therefore, all applicants are required to complete a brief 500-word summary explaining why they have chosen to complete the program and describing an initial project idea that they will work on during the program. This will help the team determine the suitability of the program in relation to the learners needs.

What you will learn

By the end of the program, the learners will be able to:

  1. Formulate a consolidated research question to address an identified gap of knowledge, evidence and/or practice.
  2. Justify the significance of a research question by identifying gaps in existing literature and demonstrating its relevance to a specific professional or workplace context.
  3. Articulate a clear and focused research aim that aligns with the research question and addresses the identified gap or problem.
  4. Create specific and measurable research outcomes that are directly linked to a research aim.
  5. Design a robust and reliable methodology that effectively addresses a research question.
  6. Develop a comprehensive plan for data collection and analysis that ensures accurate and meaningful results.
  7. Develop a detailed research protocol that outlines the study's objectives, methodology, and procedures.
  8. Describe the principles of research ethics and explain how they apply to the conduct of research.

Program structure

The program is structured using an active learning approach whereby learners are expected to complete preparatory self-directed online learning material (Step 1) prior to engaging in facilitated workshops (Step 2). Learners enrolled in the assessed version (i.e. microcredential) will also be required to complete a series of competency based summative assessments (Step 3).

Accelerate your qualification

Learners that have completed the microcredential may be eligible to apply for 6-credit points of study towards an award course offered by the Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences. For details, please check the individual course handbook.*

*Note: Completing the assessment for the 6 credit points is not a guarantee of entry into an award course. To join a postgraduate course, you must also meet Monash University’s entry criteria. If you are interested in this opportunity, please contact pharmacy.postgrad@monash.edu

Dr Louise Lord

A Senior Lecturer in the Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences at Monash University and the Lead Pharmacist – Pharmacy Practice and Research at the Royal Melbourne Hospital. She is an experienced clinical pharmacist and has completed her PhD at Monash University's Centre for Medicine Use and Safety. Louise has experience in education through her past roles at the University of Otago in New Zealand and various hospital pharmacy education teams before joining Monash University in 2020. In her dual roles, Louise is dedicated to empowering pharmacists to engage in practice-based research without feeling overwhelmed. She believes that equipping health professionals with research skills enhances patient outcomes across all levels of care. Louise has successfully supervised over 50 pharmacists in residency and post-graduate programs.

Associate Professor John Coutsouvelis

A Senior Clinical Lecturer at Monash University and the Lead Pharmacist for Cancer and Medical Specialties at Alfred Health, VIC, AUS. John has experience in both research and education being involved in co-ordinating and teaching into undergraduate and graduate programs at Monash University especially the Master of Clinical Pharmacy. John has supervised numerous students and practicing pharmacists undertaking a variety of research projects and has recently completed his PhD at Monash University’s Centre for Medicine Use and Safety. John believes when research, practice and education intersect, patient centred care is optimised.

Please see our FAQ document for more information