Global Health Research and Practice

Subject 509-001 (2008)

Note: This is an archived Handbook entry from 2008.Search for this in the current handbook

Credit Points: 12.500
Level: Graduate/Postgraduate
Dates & Locations:

This subject has the following teaching availabilities in 2008:

Semester 1, - Taught on campus.
Pre-teaching Period Start not applicable
Teaching Period not applicable
Assessment Period End not applicable
Last date to Self-Enrol not applicable
Census Date not applicable
Last date to Withdraw without fail not applicable

Block

Timetable can be viewed here. For information about these dates, click here.
Time Commitment: Contact Hours: 30 hours of contact time during the five-day block.
Total Time Commitment: For each contact hour an additional three to four hours is expected in reading and self-directed learning.
Prerequisites: 505-101 Statistics & 505-102 Epidemiology (core MPH subjects)
Corequisites: None
Recommended Background Knowledge: None
Non Allowed Subjects: None
Core Participation Requirements:

For the purposes of considering request for Reasonable Adjustments under the Disability Standards for Education (Cwth 2005), and Student Support and Engagement Policy, academic requirements for this subject are articulated in the Subject Overview, Learning Outcomes, Assessment and Generic Skills sections of this entry.

It is University policy to take all reasonable steps to minimise the impact of disability upon academic study, and reasonable adjustments will be made to enhance a student's participation in the University's programs. Students who feel their disability may impact on meeting the requirements of this subject are encouraged to discuss this matter with a Faculty Student Adviser and Student Equity and Disability Support: http://services.unimelb.edu.au/disability

Coordinator

Kathryn Bowen
Subject Overview:

This subject provides a comprehensive overview of applied research methods in global health, with a focus on developing country settings. Using a case study of a current project in North-East India, students will cover topics including: understanding research within the constraints of developing countries; identification of research questions; qualitative, quantitative and mixed methods approaches to research that are appropriate in developing country settings; ethical considerations when undertaking research activities in developing country settings; application and dissemination of research findings; and the development of research protocols and project proposals.

Objectives:

On completion of this subject, and acknowledging the constraints of operating in developing countries, students should be able to:

  • Demonstrate an understanding of the principles of research, with a focus on operational research in developing countries including qualitative, quantitative and mixed methods
  • Develop a skill set of key methods and approaches required for applied research in developing countries, including (e.g.) training needs assessments, rapid needs assessments, tender submissions to funding bodies and general reporting requirements for donors
  • Recognise the limitations as well as appropriate applications of research within a developing country setting
  • Select appropriate methods for responding to research questions and designing projects given the constraints of developing country contexts
  • Understand and incorporate general ethical considerations and also those that are particular to developing countries with regard to study/project design and processes
  • Understand the importance of the application and dissemination of research findings, particularly within a developing country context
  • Develop a research protocol for a specified study or a project proposal for submission to a funding body within a developing country context
    • Assessment: Group work and presentation 25% Development of a research protocol (4000 words) 75%
    Prescribed Texts: A set of readings will be available prior to the commencement of the subject.
    Recommended Texts: None
    Breadth Options:

    This subject is not available as a breadth subject.
    Fees Information: Subject EFTSL, Level, Discipline & Census Date
    Generic Skills:

    By participating in this subject, students will develop the following generic skills:

    • Working in small groups
    • Synthesising material and presenting it in oral and written form
    • Critical thinking skills to determine appropriate research and program approaches and overcome research challenges in developing countries
    Related Course(s): Master of Public Health

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