SGLK13004U Advanced Research Methods and Ethics
The course uses a problem-based approach to introduce the
principal concepts and methodological techniques used in global
health research; with a focus on quantitative and qualitative
research methods, as well as methods for completion of
evidence-based reviews. The aim is to develop the ability of the
student to critically discuss, select, and apply the appropriate
method(s) for addressing specific research questions in global
health, while at the same time respecting international and
national regulations and declarations on research in relation to
health.
Teaching in quantitative methods will build on the student’s
pre-requisite knowledge of the basic principles of statistics. The
course will cover methods for registry (secondary data) and
field-based (primary) data collection - including definition of
outcomes and variables; target population; sampling; sample size
calculation; and questionnaire design. Central issues on data
management, validation, and analyses using statistical software
(e.g. SPSS or R) are also covered during the course.
Teaching in qualitative methods will build on the student’s
existing knowledge of the basic concepts of anthropological and
sociological research. In addition, application of qualitative
research methods in communication studies and political science
related to global health will be taught. The course covers the
principal methods for field–based data collection including focus
group discussions; key informant interviews; participant
observation and oral history; data management; and field note
analysis (including use of statistical software).
The course will provide an introduction to the mixed methods
approach in terms of the rationale for use, common procedures, and
limitations.
The basic methodological approach to evidence-based 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. An introduction to good clinical and laboratory
practice and quality assurance will be given; as well as patients’
rights and privacy issues in relation to health and health
research.
Knowledge
On completion of the course, the students should be able to:
- Identify relevant research problems in global health
- Demonstrate knowledge of general concepts, ethical considerations and methods used when addressing research problems
Skills
On completion of the course, the students should be able to:
- Design a feasible and ethical research study in global health
- Determine the study objectives and select appropriate research method(s)
- Plan, collect, manage and analyse qualitative and quantitative health related research data and materials
- Ensure respect for and protection of human research subjects
- Address study limitations and interpret and communicate research findings
Competencies
On completion of the course, the students should be able to:
- Critically evaluate, validate and discuss existing scientific literature and data
- Differentiate between various research study designs and methods
- Carry out and coordinate scientifically valid research
- Increase knowledge in a particular problem area or issue of global health
- Category
- Hours
- E-Learning
- 24
- Exam
- 45
- Exercises
- 16
- Lectures
- 45
- Preparation
- 60
- Seminar
- 16
- Total
- 206
- Credit
- 7,5 ECTS
- Type of assessment
- Written assignmentThe length of the written take-home assignment must be 5-10 pages, excl. appendices.
- Aid
- All aids allowed
- Marking scale
- 7-point grading scale
- Censorship form
- No external censorship
Criteria for exam assesment
To achieve the maximum grade of 12, the student must be able to:
- Describe relevant research problems in global health and apply knowledge of general concepts for ensuring good research practice.
- Critically discuss relevant research methods in preparation for studies of global health problems. This includes quantitative and qualitative research methods, as well as a mixed methods approaches.
- Analyse qualitative and quantitative data on health and disease using appropriate analytical methods.
- Identify and critically evaluate the relevance and validity of scientific literature and data. The student must also be able to interpret and create systematic reviews with emphasis on health interventions targeting major global health problems.
Course information
- Language
- English
- Course code
- SGLK13004U
- Credit
- 7,5 ECTS
- Level
- Full Degree Master
- Duration
- 1 block
- Placement
- Block 2
- Schedule
- B (Mon 8-12 + Tues 13-17 + Fri 8-12)
- Course capacity
- 35 participants
- Study board
- Study Board for International Health
Contracting department
- Department of International Health, Immunology and Microbiology
Course responsibles
- Karin Linda Schiøler (4-7c8474795184867f753f7c863f757c)
Chief responsibility - Maria Novrup (3-7d7e7f5083857e743e7b853e747b)
- Michael James Calopietro (11-756b69747778716d7c7a774870777c75697174366b7775)