SGLK18002U Health Research Methodology

The course introduces the principal theoretical and methodological approaches used in global health research; with a focus on quantitative and qualitative research methods, as well as methods for undertaking systematic reviews. The aim is to develop the ability of the student to critically assess and apply the appropriate research method(s) for addressing specific research questions in global health, while at the same time respecting international and national regulations, declarations and ethics in global health research.

Teaching in quantitative methods will build on the student’s pre-requisite knowledge of the basic principles of statistics and epidemiology. The course will cover methods for primary (field-based) and secondary data collection - including definition of variables; target populations; sampling; sample size calculation; and questionnaire design. Central issues on data management, analyses and validation using statistical software (such as SPSS) are also covered during the course.

Teaching in qualitative methods will build on the student’s pre-requisite knowledge of the basic characteristics and methods of qualitative research and provide insight into different approaches to qualitative research, e.g. ethnography. The course covers theoretical and analytical conceptualization of qualitative research, development of research tools and introduction to different approaches to analysis and application or development of theory.

The course will provide an introduction to the mixed methods approach in terms of the rationale for use, common procedures, and limitations.

Selected types of literature review will be covered. Specifically, the basic methodological approach to systematic reviews of health interventions is introduced, including search strategies for secondary data; pre-determined inclusion criteria for eligibility and quality of identified data; specification of outcomes and indicators; as well as narrative and statistical data analysis (including meta-analysis).

In addition, the course covers the basic principles and statutes on research ethics addressing the considerations and challenges of ensuring good research practice at each of the main stages of the research process.

The course will present an opportunity to work in cross-disciplinary project teams and consciously develop skills in maintaining an effective team work process. In an integrated approach, the students will develop their competencies in constructive research-related communication and in providing feedback to peers and team members.