ECX9720

Introduction to epidemiology and biostatistics ( 6 points, SCA Band 2, 0.125 EFTSL)

Leader: Dr F Cicuttini and Dr A Forbes

Offered:
AUSTIN First semester 2005 (OCL)
Clayton First semester 2005 (OCL)
Parkville First semester 2005 (OCL)
AUSTIN SA-02 2005 (OCL)
Clayton Second semester 2005 (OCL)
MMS-ALFRED Second semester 2005 (OCL)
AUSTIN Summer 2005 (OCL)
AUSTIN Term 1 2005 (OCL)
Parkville Term 1 2005 (OCL)
Parkville Term 3 2005 (OCL)

Synopsis: The first half of the unit provides an appreciation of the differences between descriptive and analytical epidemiology, an appreciation of the strengths and weaknesses of different epidemiological study design, and the basic design features of an intervention study. The unit provides parallel introduction to the basic concepts and methods of biostatistics including confidence intervals, p-values and sample size, statistical tests for comparing groups, regression models and survival analysis. The second half of the unit looks in particular at the design and evaluation of clinical trials.

Objectives: On completion of the unit students will be able to: 1. appreciate the strengths and weaknesses of different epidemiological study designs; 2. demonstrate an understanding of basic concepts and methods of biostatistics; 3. interpret confidence intervals, p-values and sample size; 4. use epidemiological and biostatistical principles to critically evaluate epidemiological research.

Assessment: Two assignments (1500 words each): 50% + Examination (3 hours): 50%

Contact Hours: 12 hours per week