CPE7608

Health informatics research methods ( 3 points, SCA Band 2, 0.063 EFTSL)

Leader: Ms Janette Agg

Offered:
Clayton First semester 2006 (OCL)
Clayton Second semester 2006 (OCL)

Synopsis: This unit will build upon concepts introduced in evaluation methodologies in the prerequisite Graduate Certificate of Health Informatics. Students will follow through a complete research methodology cycle within the context of the health informatics discipline. By the completion of this unit, they should be equipped to both critically evaluate research studies and also to undertake a basic research project.

Objectives: At the completion of this unit the student should be able to: 1. Construct a meaningful definition of the concept of 'research' within the context of health informatics; 2. Conduct a literature review; 3. Identify appropriate empirical research methods and corresponding measures of rigour for a variety of health informatics contexts; 4. Identify appropriate methods of collecting empirical evidence within the health informatics context; 5. Conduct basic quantative and qualitative analysis of data; 6. Critically appraise a health informatics journal article; and 7. Understand the key components of academic writing.

Assessment: Participation in on-line discussion group (30%) + Literature review approximately 1,500 words with additional commentary approximately 500 words (70%) + submission of a journal (not weighted)