MPH7207 Research Methods

Several approaches are used to guide decision-making in health programs. Deciding on which course of action to take should not be by gut feeling, but rather, should be supported by sound scientific evidence. The collection and use of proper information at the right level contribute to the decision-making process. This course gives an overview of the meaning and importance of research. Research includes a broad range of scientific methods between two main domains: On one end are precise empirical measurements that generate quantitative data while on the other end is the use of observation, experience and knowledge translation to inform decision making. It is desirable that before taking this course, the students should have undertaken Applied Epidemiology I and Applied Biostatistics I courses

Course aim

By the end of the course, students will have the ability to design, conduct and analyze qualitative and quantitative research findings of properly selected and prioritized health problems of Public Health importance using internationally acceptable standards and methodologies, and communicate research findings to fill key knowledge gaps.

Course Learning Outcomes
By the end of this course, the graduate trainees should be able to:

• Identify priority research problems so as to formulate qualitative and quantitative research questions and objectives 
• Conduct a problem analysis to formulate a concise but informative problem statement and justification and conceptual framework
• Conduct appropriate scientific literature review and citation to defend and further clarify research-related knowledge gaps
• Identify appropriate qualitative and quantitative methodologies and use them to write and implement a research proposal to address specified research questions
• Prepare a data analysis plan and conduct basic data analysis from both qualitative and quantitative studies
• Explain the key ethical principles and quality control in research, with emphasis on protection of human participants and attainment of internal validity
• Apply appropriate statistical and qualitative computer packages to conduct basic analysis of qualitative and quantitative data
• Employ appropriate methods to communicate key research findings to those who need to take action