Monash University Handbooks 2008

MPH2074 - Introduction to clinical research methods

6 points, SCA Band 2, 0.125 EFTSL

Postgraduate Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences

Leader: Associate Professor M DeCourten

Offered

Not offered in 2008

Synopsis

Practical skills for the design, conduct and analysis of a research project. Introduction to research methods and critical appraisal of published literature. Issues in protocol design including selection of type of study, performing a literature review, questionnaire design, sampling methods and ethics approval.

Objectives

At the completion of this subject, students will be able to:

  1. formulate a testable clinical research questions
    • able to generate a research question and testable hypothesis
    • be familiar with existing data sources and their strengths and limitations
  2. prepare a grant application for research funding
    • be able to access sources of research funding and prepare a grant application
    • be able to prepare a research manuscript and present research findings
  3. consult effectively with a biostatistician
    • understand important statistical concepts: sample size, power, results analysis
  4. prepare an application for human ethical approval
    • be familiar with ethical issues of research and good clinical research practice
    • be familiar with common research designs and their strengths and limitations
  5. develop and validate a questionnaire and appropriate data management plan for a research project
    • be able to clean and store data, and develop an appropriate database
    • be familiar with the evaluation of diagnostic tests and their application.

Assessment

Examination (40%) and two assignments (60%).

Off Campus Attendance Requirements

2.5 day block

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