Overview of research methods and their importance in public health

Differentiating between qualitative and quantitative research – why would we choose each approach within the public health context?

Techniques for collecting qualitative and quantitative data

Basics of data analysis

Introduction to the evidence-base – conducting a literature review

Ethical considerations within public health research.

Structuring and writing a research report

Effective presentation of research findings to various audiences

How research relates to and informs public health policy and practice

Evaluating and improving public health interventions based on research findings

Undertake a written analysis of a specific public health policy selected from a range provided by the academic team. Explain and evaluate how data and research has been used to formulate your chosen policy and evaluate how this would impact upon your role as a public health practitioner. (LO 1,2,3)

Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of commonly used research methods within public health, including how data is collected and analysed.

Knowledge & Understanding

Evaluate how research informs public health policy and practice, and how to assess and improve public health interventions based on research findings.

Enquiry

Analysis

Understand and reflect upon the role of the public health practitioner in delivering key research findings to diverse audiences and the impact upon public health initiatives.

Learning

Application

Reflection

Key concepts will be delivered through lead lectures delivered through the university’s Virtual Learning Environment. This will then be followed by online synchronous discussion groups/seminars allowing learners to explore key issues and discuss the application to their particular working contexts.

Virtual Learning Environment (VLE)

Online learning resources and guides

Library and academic resources

Recorded supplementary material#

Bowling, A. (2014) Research methods in health investigating health and health services. Fourth edition.

Magnuson, J.A. and Dixon, B.E. (2020) Public health informatics and information systems. Springer Nature.

Mason, J., (2018) Qualitative Researching. Third Edition. London. Sage.

McSweeney, F. (2019) Designing and conducting research in social science, health and social care. First Edition. Edited by F. McSweeney. New York: Routledge

This module introduces essential research methods in public health, covering qualitative and quantitative approaches and their applications. Learn techniques for data collection and analysis, including basics of conducting a literature review and ethical considerations. Develop skills in structuring research reports, presenting findings, and understanding research's impact on public health policy and practice.