SGLK15004U Health Research Methodology

The course introduces the principal concepts and methodological approaches used in global health research; with a focus on quantitative and qualitative research methods, as well as methods for completion of systematic 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 primary 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 (e.g. SPSS) 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 primary (field-based) data collection including focus group discussions; key informant interviews; participant observation and oral history. Central issues on data management and qualitative content analysis are also covered.

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 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. 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.