Are you an optometrist interested in learning more about research?

Optometry academics at Ulster University, in partnership with the College of Optometrists, has developed and launched a series of learning modules aimed at supporting optometrists who want to undertake research.

The Getting Started in research modules have been produced for the National Institute for Health and Social Care Research (NIHR).

These are first learning materials on the NIHR's Learn platform written specifically for optometrists, these new bite-sized resources will support optometrists in developing their understanding of research and in acquiring research skills.

Course Modules

There are nine units in total.

Each takes around 45 minutes, and they can either be followed from start to finish to form a complete 'course', or taken individually to provide bespoke support, depending on an individual’s interests and learning needs.

Each has a CPD point attached.

Introduction to research image

Introduction to research

MODULE 1: This online CPD course helps you identify the difference between research, audit, and service evaluation, describe the main...

What is research and where do I find it? image

What is research and where do I find it?

MODULE 2: This online CPD course will help you understand research evidence, understand the peer-review process, and identify discipline-specific journals....

Evaluating the method image

Evaluating the method

MODULE 3: This online CPD course will help you evaluate methodological quality and determine whether a research study is relevant...

Demystifying the data image

Demystifying the data

MODULE 4: This online CPD course introduces the different types of data found in research studies and how they can...

Statistical methods: what, where and why? image

Statistical methods: what, where and why?

MODULE 5: This online CPD course explores the use of statistical tests in hypothesis testing and when to use specific...

What data is clinically important to my practice? image

What data is clinically important to my practice?

MODULE 6: This online CPD course details the meaning of statistical significance and how this relates to clinical significance in...

The importance of research in everyday practice image

The importance of research in everyday practice

MODULE 7: This online CPD course explains the importance of research in healthcare and how research findings can be used...

Implementing evidence based eyecare image

Implementing evidence based eyecare

MODULE 8: This online CPD course demonstrates how to find relevant clinical research using the correct search methods and explains...

Getting involved in research image

Getting involved in research

MODULE 9: This online course identifies ways in which you can get involved in research and how to determine the...