Lead a research project

This standard identifies the requirements when leading a safe and ethical research project in an area of practice, using the skills of data collection, analysis and evaluation. You must be able to plan the research required for the project, collect the findings and present them in a format which is most suitable for the intended purpose and audience.

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1. identify the research need or topics 
2. define clear and relevant research questions and outcomes 
3. review existing research and information and identify gaps in knowledge 
4. plan and prepare research designs and methodologies for the outcomes and intended audiences 
5. select research methods and types of data to be generated 
6. plan and prepare for data collections and analysis 
7. use inclusive and accessible methods to plan and prepare participant engagement 
8. promote equality, diversity, inclusion and rights in research design and participant representation 
9. agree on sample sizes and contingency plans for low responses and potential barriers 
10. define and organise key stages, tasks, resources, locations, and timelines for the research
11. ensure that the research plans adhere to ethical standards and maintain confidentiality
12. agree with others the procedures for reporting progress 
13. set criteria and methods to evaluate the research success 
14. gain consent of all research participants
15. gather and organise data using the chosen research methods 
16. monitor the implementation of safe and ethical research practices 
17. monitor the amount of information that is collected from selected sources 
18. structure, visualise and analyse data 
19. identify patterns, themes, relationships and key insights from data 
20. interpret the findings in relation to research questions and outcomes 
21. present the findings and support conclusions in formats that aligns with the outcomes and intended audiences
22. use a range of different digital tools and devices for safe and ethical research
23. apply research findings, using appropriate methods 
24. evaluate the research processes and results
25. complete records and reports required for leading a research project
26. reflect on how you carried out your roles and responsibilities when leading a research project

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1. the importance of defining clear and relevant research questions and outcomes
2. how to access and review current and existing research about the project topic
3. how to evaluate validity and reliability of existing research 
4. the influence of neurodivergence and additional support needs on research design, methodology and outcomes
5. the influence of culture and background on research design, methodology and outcomes
6. challenges to participant involvement and engagement in research
7. how to lead on the application of trauma informed principles in a safe and ethical research project
8. how to lead on dignity, kindness and compassion when leading a research project
9. how to support emotional regulation during a research project
10. the ethics of undertaking research, including consent and confidentiality 
11. different research methods and the types of data they generate
12. how to evaluate the bias of different research methods and overcome them 
13. differences between primary and secondary research
14. the differences between qualitative and quantitative methodologies
15. methods of data collection, visualisation, synthesis and analysis 
16. how to differentiate between facts and interpretations
17. how to develop data analysis tools 
18. the importance of visualising data and identify patterns, relationships and key insights 
19. how to present information in a way that is inclusive and meaningful to the audience receiving it
20. how and why to evaluate the success of research 
21. how the research process and findings can enhance personal, professional and organisational knowledge 
22. how to use digital tools and devices to lead safe and ethical research
23. the records and reports required for leading a research project
24. theories relevant to leading a research project
25. the relevant legal requirements, standards of practice, frameworks and guidance for leading a research project 
26. the workplace requirements on equality, diversity, inclusion, and rights when leading a research project 
27. how your personal experiences and unconscious bias may impact when leading a research project, and how to address this
28. the role of supervision, reflective practice and learning and development in leading a research project

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The glossary for this National Occupational Standard is available on the Skills for Care and Development website.

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1

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2031

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Current

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Original

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Skills for Care and Development

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HSCCLD424

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Social Care and Childrens Care

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Lead research project, Health and Social Care & Children's Care Learning and Development

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