Here you will find training resources and information on training produced and delivered by NHS Education for Scotland and external training available
An Introduction to Qualitative Research in Spiritual Care (2021)
A new introductory course in qualitative research for healthcare chaplains, spiritual care providers and health and social care professionals with an interest in spiritual care research. This professional learning experience was delivered online over six weeks and introduced participants to a broad range of qualitative research skills as they worked through the stages of developing a research idea through to full proposal.
The course intentionally aimed to connect and encourage a network of research-interested chaplains, spiritual care providers and other healthcare professionals across Scotland and Ireland with a view to strengthening the evidence base for spiritual care theory and practice in healthcare.
This course was aimed at beginner researchers who have an interest in conducting high quality research but need the confidence and support to get started. It is also a suitable refresher for early-stage researchers working on a project with a qualitative dimension. The long-term hope of this course was to encourage and equip Scottish and Irish chaplains to undertake research that could, in time, be suitable for peer-reviewed publication and thus add to the evidence base for spiritual care in NHS Scotland and beyond.
The course was designed and delivered by Dr Suzanne Bunniss, using a range of learning methods including presented lecture material, relevant reading, small group discussion, practical exercises and individual support. Through the course sessions, as well as guided weekly home study exercises, participants were introduced to the following elements of qualitative research:
• Formulating a research question
• Introduction to research philosophy
• Study design and ethical considerations
• How to approach a literature review
• Understanding qualitative data collection methods (including interviews, focus groups and observation)
• Approaches to data analysis and interpretation
• How to plan for write up and dissemination
Participants worked towards the following learning outcomes:
1. an introductory understanding of the key elements of qualitative research
2. an increased confidence in designing, conducting and interpreting qualitative research in healthcare
3. a completed research proposal that could be taken forward into a real-life research study
The course led to the formation of a Research Network to provide ongoing mutual support and encouragement for those engaged in spiritual care research. Conversations with colleagues in both N Ireland and England have, in turn, led to the establishment of a UK-wide Journal Club (Research First Journal Club).
Transforming Chaplaincy is directly involved in cultivating new cohorts of research-literate chaplains
Online training in research literacy with Transforming Chaplaincy