Introduction to Health Sciences Research

• • Inductive and deductive reasoning in health sciences research
  • Introduction to Ethics process and issues in Research Practice
  • Introduction to the quantitative research paradigm
  • Introduction to the qualitative research paradigm
  • How to ask qualitative and quantitative research questions?
  • Basic steps to conducting a systematic literature search
  • Relationships between variables
  • Introduction of basic terms in research – part 1
  • Introduction of basic terms in research – part 2
  • Levels of evidence in quantitative and qualitative research
  • Critiquing quantitative research articles
  • Critiquing qualitative research articles

• Study resources

  • Instructional methods

    • Discussion forum/Discussion Board
    • Overview Notes
    • Web links
    • Interactive Games
    • Audio/Video conferencing
    • Online assignment submission

  • Online materials

    • Printable format materials
    • Resources and Links
    • Online Assessment

In order to enrol in this subject, you must be accepted into one of the following degrees:

Core

• ACU-MPH-GDI-2020
• ACU-MPH-MAS-2020
• ACU-GHA-MAS-2020

Elective

• ACU-RHB-GCE-2020

Special requirements

No special requirements

Health sciences research is the generation and translation of new knowledge into health policy and practice. It is a key activity within public health. This subject addresses the scope of health-related research and the range of research methods available to undertake research in the health professions. As an introductory level subject, it will outline the diverse approaches that can be taken in qualitative and quantitative research. The steps in developing health-related research questions, selecting appropriate research methods for those questions and identifying, appraising and synthesising existing research findings underpinning those questions will be examined.

The aim of the subject is to give students an introduction to the breadth of health sciences research for use by health professionals.

A range of assessment procedures will be used to meet the unit learning outcomes and develop graduate attributes consistent with University assessment requirements. For HLSC641, assessments will include a literature review of a topic which will enable student to acquire advanced knowledge of searching methods and an appraisal of research articles to enable critical thinking about research study designs. The assessment strategy allows students to progressively develop their knowledge and skills to the level of sophistication where they are able to critically appraise research papers. In order to develop the knowledge and skills required to achieve the learning outcomes and Graduate Attributes, students first demonstrate knowledge through a literature review, further develop their understanding by critically appraising published research, and apply their understanding in an authentic way by writing personal reflections of new concepts learned and how they extend their practice.

• Written Task - Literature Review (40%)
• Written Task - Critical Appraisal (50%)
• Practice Reflection (10%)