Research Methods for Medical and Health Studies

Research is a systematic investigation aimed at discovering and explaining new knowledge (WHO, 2001). It involves uncovering new information or applying existing data in innovative ways, always requiring evidence. For medical doctors and practitioners, a foundational understanding of research methods is crucial before undertaking any project.

Specifically, research encompasses:

• A structured approach to inquiry.
• A process for testing and developing theories.
• A method to validate hypotheses.
• A systematic way to define and answer research questions.

Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:

• Grasp the fundamentals of medical research.
• Differentiate between various study designs, including observational and experimental approaches.
• Understand the entire research study design process, from initial proposal to final report.
• Recognize ethical considerations in medical research, particularly within clinical trials.
• Define variables and accurately identify independent and dependent variables.
• Explore different sampling methods and make informed choices for study samples.
• Understand sample size determination – a critical element in any scientific research endeavor.