NUT4111 - Research skills - 2018

6 points, SCA Band 2, 0.125 EFTSL

Undergraduate - Unit

Refer to the specific census and withdrawal dates for the semester(s) in which this unit is offered.

Faculty

Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences

Organisational Unit

Department of Nutrition, Dietetics and Food

Chief examiner(s)

Professor Helen Truby

Coordinator(s)

Dr Kate Huggins

Unit guides

Offered

Clayton

  • First semester 2018 (On-campus)
  • Second semester 2018 (On-campus)

Synopsis

A weekly course over 12 weeks on research skills including: study design, use of relevant databases, statistical analysis software, how to search and summarise the scientific literature, best practice in data presentation, qualitative and quantitative data analysis and skills in evidenced based review and critical analysis of scientific writing.

Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this unit, students should be able to:

  1. explain different study designs and major methodologies used for quantitative and qualitative research, and interpret data drawn from the scientific literature relating to nutrition;
  2. explain the procedure of how to perform a comprehensive evidenced-based systematic literature review;
  3. display competency in the use of relevant databases, spreadsheets and statistical analysis software;
  4. explain the issues covered in making a submission to an ethics committee for approval of research projects; and
  5. communicate through a range of modes including: scientific discussions, oral presentation and written work.

Assessment

Assessment from NUT4111 will contribute to 15% to the final mark for Bachelor of Nutrition (Honours) degree comprising:

  • Critique of a scientific paper & ethical review - Quantitative method (2,500 words) (45%)
  • Critique of a scientific paper & ethical review - Qualitative methods (2,500 words (45%)
  • MCQ (1 hour) (10%)

Workload requirements

Lecture/tutorials: 2 hours per week; assignments and self-directed learning: 8 hours per week.

See also Unit timetable information

This unit applies to the following area(s) of study