Course syllabus - Evidence Based Practice and Evaluation

Objectives

The objective of the course is for students to attain further enhanced knowledge about the significance of evidence in the area of health and welfare. Another course objective is for students to be able to perform systematic database searches, procure knowledge about models for knowledge transfer and evaluation as a basis for the development of an evidence-based practice in the area of health and welfare.
 

Learning outcomes

After having completed the course, students are expected to be able to:
1. Describe and evaluate the significance of evidence in relation to the patient/user.
2. Describe and evaluate the significance of evidence in relation to development work.
    Describe and perform systematic database searches on the basis of hierarchies of knowledge.
3. Discuss the way in which the meaning of evidence as a concept is influenced by points of view and perspectives in different   disciplines and professions.
4. Describe and evaluate different models of knowledge transfer to practices in the area of health and welfare.
5. Describe and evaluate different models and methods for evaluation.
6. Independently identify and describe an area within the general area of health and welfare which would benefit from developing an evidence-based practice.

Course content

Different perspectives on evidence as a concept
Perspectives on searching for evidence – strategies for research and practice
Models for knowledge transfer as a basis for evidence-based care, rehabilitation, public health efforts and social work
Models and methods of evaluation

Tuition

Teaching on the course consists of lectures and seminars. The teaching methods aim for students to practice active knowledge creation, critical reflection, and argumentation, individually and in groups.
 

Specific requirements

A degree at the Bachelor’s level in one of the following subject areas: Public Health Science, Nursing with a specialisation in Care, Caring Sciences, Medical Science, Physiotherapy, Social Work, Sociology, Psychology, or the equivalent. In addition, Swedish B/Swedish 2 and English A/English 5 are required. In cases when the course is offered in English, the requirement for Swedish B/Swedish 2 is excluded.
 

Examination

Seminars (SEM1), 2.5 credit points, discuss and evaluate the concept of evidence in relation to practice (Learning objectives 1, 2 and 4). Marks Pass (G).
Assignment (INL1), 5 credit points, PM. Learning objectives 3, 5, 6 and 7. Marks Pass (G) or Pass with distinction (VG).

For the grade Pass with distinction (VG) on the course as a whole, the student must receive a Pass with distinction (VG) for INL1. For more information, see the Study Guide

A student who has a certificate from MDU regarding a disability has the opportunity to submit a request for supportive measures during written examinations or other forms of examination, in accordance with the Rules and Regulations for Examinations at First-cycle and Second-cycle Level at Mälardalen University (2020/1655). It is the examiner who takes decisions on any supportive measures, based on what kind of certificate is issued, and in that case which measures are to be applied.

Suspicions of attempting to deceive in examinations (cheating) are reported to the Vice-Chancellor, in accordance with the Higher Education Ordinance, and are examined by the University’s Disciplinary Board. If the Disciplinary Board considers the student to be guilty of a disciplinary offence, the Board will take a decision on disciplinary action, which will be a warning or suspension.

Grade

Pass with distinction, Pass, Fail