Universitat Internacional de Catalunya
Research Methodology and Ethics (Cross-Disc. Res.)
Research Methodology and Ethics (Cross-Disc. Res.)
1
11416
1
Annual
OB
Main language of instruction: English
Teaching staff
Introduction
In the event that the health authorities announce a new period of confinement due to the evolution of the health crisis caused by COVID-19, the teaching staff will promptly communicate how this may effect the teaching methodologies and activities as well as the assessment.
Scientific Methodology is the fundamental axis of research in the Health Sciences. It underpins all innovation with theoretical and empirical models that contribute to a better understanding of reality. The methodology facilitates the detection and resolution of specific problems, and its use and application guarantee scientific rigor.
Pre-course requirements
None
Objectives
This course aims:
- To give basic methodological tools to the student to create a research project.
- To know the main sources of information based on evidence.
- To train the student to work in research groups.
- To teach the student to use assessment methods for different types of studies.
Competences/Learning outcomes of the degree programme
- CB10 - Acquire learning skills that allow them to continue studying in a self-directed and autonomous mode.
- CB6 - Knowledge and understanding to provide a basis or opportunity for originality in developing and / or applying ideas in a research context.
- CB7 - To apply the acquired knowledge, and develop their ability to solve problems in new environments within broader (or multidisciplinary) contexts related to their field of study.
- CB8 - Integrate knowledge and deals with the complexity of formulate judgments based on scientific evidence, from information that may be incomplete or limited, include reflecting on social and ethical responsibilities linked to the application of their knowledge and judgments.
- CE1 - Ability to apply the scientific method, the experimental design and the biostatistics to solve a problem or corroborate hypothesis.
- CE3 - Ability to apply bioinformatics tools used in basic research.
- CT1 - Ability to work in multidisciplinary and multicultural groups
Learning outcomes of the subject
- To formulate appropriate research questions.
- To understand the fundamental concepts related to epidemiology and the scientific process.
- To know how to read scientific literature critically and recognise parts.
- To use specific literature search tools.
Syllabus
1. Introduction to scientific knowledge
- The process of scientific knowledge
- Characteristics of scientific knowledge
- Evidence-based practice. Critical thinking
- Introduction to critical reading of scientific articles *
2. Research in Health Sciences
- Importance of research in dentistry
- Approach to the research question
- Introduction to the literature review *
- Main lines of research in dentistry nationally and internationally
3. General:
- Introduction to the design of studies*: observational (descriptive, analytical), experimental (quasi-experimental, pre/post studies, pure)
- Study types: transversal, longitudinal prospective (cohort), retrospective (case-control), clinical trial
4. Development of a research project
- Project Summary
- Rationale for the study
- Hypothesis
- Aims and objectives
- Methodology
- Study population and selection techniques for sample: probability sampling and non- probabilistic
- Selection criteria for the study sample
- Intervention: randomisation techniques (treatment arms), blind procedures, single blind, double blind, triple blind)
- Procedures for visit
- Data collection
- Definition of measuring instruments: concepts of reliability and validity, development and adaptation of a questionnaire
- Concept of bias
- Concepts of internal and external validity
- Ethical considerations
- Limitations of the study
- Bibliometric impact
- Work schedule
- Financial Report
- Annexes
5. Principal guidelines/ standards for development project *:
- CONSORT guide
- STROBE guide
- SPIRIT guide
- PRISMA guide
Bibliography and resources
Narváez, V. P. D. (2009). Metodología de la investigación científica y bioestadística: para médicos, odontólogos y estudiantes de ciencias de la salud. RiL Editores.