The subject of Research Methodology provides the essential foundations for conducting research in the field of health. Topics such as the scientific method and its relevance in health, evidence-based methodology, quantitative methodology including study design and sampling techniques, as well as qualitative methodology and information analysis in such research, are covered.
Titular Professors
No prior knowledge is required.
Students acquire the following knowledge and develop the following skills: 1. Describe the basic concepts related to the design and analysis of studies in health sciences, including qualitative and quantitative methodology. 2. Select, interpret, and apply the most appropriate data collection techniques and instruments to different study problems.
Block 1: Research Foundations in Healthcare Engineering. This block introduces students to the role of research in healthcare engineering. Students are introduced to the types of research relevant to healthcare engineers and begin forming their project groups. The second and third sessions explore the scientific method in depth, covering how to formulate research questions and hypotheses, operationalize variables, and understand causality.
Block 2: Research Design, Ethics, and Methods. This block introduces students to key research designs and methodological tools. Sessions focus on measurement concepts such as validity and reliability, followed by an overview of experimental, quasi-experimental, and descriptive designs, using practical examples from healthcare engineering. Students also examine fundamental ethical principles, data management practices, and responsible conduct in research. This block also includes a transition to quantitative methods, introducing data types, data visualization, survey design, and sampling strategies.
Block 3: Qualitative Research, Critical Appraisal, and Application. The final module focuses on qualitative research methods and the application of scientific knowledge in real-world contexts. Students learn coding and thematic analysis techniques and gain experience interpreting qualitative data from interviews and focus groups. They will acquire knowledge of literature searches and the critical appraisal of quantitative and qualitative studies.
The Research Methodology subject is taught through participatory lectures, in-class assignments, and presentations covering various theoretical and practical contents. It engages students through a combination of activities and exercises in the classroom, encouraging them to ask questions that involve personal reasoning.
Class Participation: 10% Active engagement in class discussions and activities will be assessed throughout the course. This component reflects students consistent presence, preparation, and contribution. In-class Assignment
- Questionnaire: 40% This is an individual, in-class assignment in the form of a structured questionnaire covering key theoretical and practical aspects of the course content.
- Group Presentation: 50% Students will work in groups to prepare and deliver a presentation on a topic related to the course. Assessment will be based on the clarity, depth, and originality of content, as well as collaboration and presentation skills.
To pass, it is necessary to obtain at least a 5 on the final exam; otherwise, the course will be considered failed and the student must take the second sitting. Activities not submitted are graded with a 0.
Creswell, J. W., & Creswell, J. D. (2018). Research design: Qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods approaches (5th ed.). SAGE Publications.
Coffey, A., & Atkinson, P. (1996). Making sense of qualitative data (Chapter 2). SAGE Publications.
Daly, F., Hand, D. J., Jones, M. C., Lunn, A. D., & McConway, K. J. (1995). Elements of statistics. Pearson Education.
Diamond, I., & Jefferies, J. (2001). Beginning statistics: An introduction for social scientists. SAGE Publications. Kvale, S. (1996).
Oliver, P. (2003). The student?s guide to research ethics. Open University Press.
Oppenheim, A. N. (1992). Questionnaire design, interviewing, and attitude measurement. Pinter Publishers.
Rowntree, D. (2004). Statistics without tears: An introduction for non-mathematicians. Penguin Books.
Strauss, A., & Corbin, J. (1990). Basics of qualitative research: Grounded theory procedures and techniques. SAGE Publications.