R&D10 Interpret results of research and development activities

Overview

This standard is about interpreting results of research and development activities. It may involve the researcher interpreting results from a single hypothesis, single researcher activity, on own research project or as a member of a research team. Interpretation methods may be qualitative or quantitative and may range in scale from simple to complex analyses. Users of this standard will need to ensure that practice reflects up to date information and policies. Version No 1

Knowledge and Understanding

You will need to know and understand:

the range of relevant interpretive methods which could be used in the research programme and how to apply them
relevant ethical issues relating to interpretation and presentation of results
relevant regulatory requirements relating to presentation of results
methods for confirming reliability of research data
methods for testing the validity of interpretative techniques
your organisation’s requirements in relation to interpretation and presentation of research results
the distinction between results and interpretation of the results
the levels of authority in respect of interpretation and analysis of research results
your role and responsibilities in respect of interpretation and analysis of research results
sources of support and advice and how to access them

Performance Criteria

You must be able to do the following:

base your interpretation on results which are confirmed to be as reliable as possible
use and apply consistently valid interpretative methods
ensure interpretation of results is valid
assess the significance and impact of the research
assess the results of research against the original objectives
investigate reasons where the research has failed to achieve its objectives and provide clear explanation
make a clear distinction between the results and the interpretation placed upon them
make recommendations based on the interpretation of results

Additional Information

This National Occupational Standard was developed by Skills for Health. This standard links with the following dimension within the NHS Knowledge and Skills Framework (October 2004): Dimension: IK2 Information collection and analysis This standard has replaced HCS_H10 and PH09.01.