Research Methods for Health Science

Catalog description

This course introduces students to ecological, experimental and observational research methods that are necessary to conduct research in the health sciences and public health. Students discover the differentiating contributions of qualitative and quantitative research methods to the understanding of health and the disease process, as well as explore the role of innovative research designs, such as community-based participatory research, ecological momentary assessment, and mixed-methods designs. Students explore the relationship between methodological decisions and the strength of research findings. As part of the course, students develop a working knowledge of measurement theory; the validity and reliability of health-based measures; and population sampling techniques. Research ethics, including research funding and dissemination, are emphasized through historical and modern lenses, and past ethical errors relevant to the development of modern bioethical principles are discussed. Ethical codes created and supported by the American Medical Association and the American Public Health Association are prioritized. Students demonstrate their knowledge through the development of a research plan on a health or public health topic of their choice.