Global Health Research and Practice

This subject has the following teaching availabilities in 2009:

For each contact hour an additional three to four hours is expected in reading and self-directed learning.

None

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

This subject provides a comprehensive overview of applied research methods in global health, with a focus on developing country settings. 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.

• 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

In-depth interview or 1000 word critique (25%) and development of a research protocol 4000 words (75%)

A set of readings will be available prior to the commencement of the subject.

This subject is not available as a breadth subject.

• 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