HSC1061 - Introduction to research in health science

Leader(s): Dr Andrew Joyce

Offered

Caulfield First semester 2009 (Day)
Caulfield First semester 2009 (Off-campus)

Synopsis

A core skill at university and in the health workforce is the ability to generate relevant research and to access and critically engage with the literature and evidence base in health. This unit introduces students to the research process, including both quantitative and qualitative approaches to research and principles and theoretical perspectives guiding research. It also develops information literacy and critical appraisal skills in students. At the conclusion of the unit, students should have a basic knowledge of research and the research process and a critical understanding of research carried out by others. Students will develop essential skills for both study and professional life.

Objectives

By the completion of this unit, it is expected that the student will be able to:

1. Conduct a literature search and demonstrate a basic ability to read and critically analyse the literature;
2. Use the Endnote referencing package for the storage and retrieval of references
3. Write a literature review and a basic research proposal;
4. Outline the importance of research to the foundations and development of the professional health disciplines;
5. Summarize research principles, the research process and the major research designs
6. Identify ethical issues and key concepts involved with the research process;
7. Describe quantitative research techniques (research design, data collection, analysis & reporting);
8. Describe qualitative research techniques (research design, data collection, analysis & reporting);
9. Describe Evidence-based practice

Assessment

+ AT1 Research article critique and review: 20%
+ AT2 Information literacy, literature searching and reference management: 25%
+ AT3 Presentation preparation: 15%
+ AT4 Reserach report: 40%
+ Hurdle requirements: On Campus students: 80% attendance at tutorials unless medical or other certification provided and completion of in-class activities. Off Campus students: participation in six online activities and reflection task as specified in the Off Campus Study Guide.

Contact hours

On campus students: 12 hours per week including contact time (1 hour lecture, 2 hour tutorial) and self directed learning.

Off-campus attendance requirements

Off campus students: 12 hours of study per week which includes working though study materials, essentials readings, activities (including online), completing assessment tasks and self directed learning.