Research methodology,proposal development analysis and scientific report writing skills

Abstract

Welcome to Module 5 on Research Methodology and Proposal Development Course: MPH 651. Research is a logical and systematic search for new and useful information while research methodology is a way to systematically solve a research problem by applying research theory and methods. This module is an introduction to research theory and methodsin medical public health studies and biological sciences, and is a core course module of the program. It outlines the steps involved in the research process and protocol development, using a mix of research methods (quantitative and qualitative methods) and operationalizes methodological concepts and their applications. It conceptualizes variables and their measurements; study designs including the management of a research project. Other components include: techniques of data collection, quality control of data and analysis; ethics in research, and writing research proposals and scientific writing; information search and use of bibliographical soft‐ware; conference presentations and critical review of scientific literature. The scientific methodology of this application explicatesthe accepted criteria for empirical objectivity (truth) based on the methods and techniques for verification to produce claims for knowledge. Aspects of evaluation research and computer applications to expose students to knowledge of statistical software packages for data analysis and interpretation, and gaining access to computerized literature search further forms parts of this methodological approach. The students will also learn how to develop a critical and engaged attitude to research design so as to become critical users of scientific literatures. Additionally students will be provided with knowledge on how to improve quality, effectiveness and equity of public health and health care servicesthrough provision of a scientific evidence basis that focuses on developing strong integrated epidemiological qualifications. The philosophical epistemology of research concepts, methodological applications and proposal development are organized into eight (8) important Sub‐modules: Modules 5.1‐5.3 of this module will be devoted to the understanding of the epistemology of research concepts related to the terminology, purposes, and its basic characteristics. It provides a further holistic grounded realities of principles of research, problem definition & identification alongside conceptualizing a problem analysis, and in the formulation of a statement of problem. Other components of this contextual units will include the scientific literature review process, formulation of research questions, hypotheses and objectives. Furthermore, you will be expected to critically review the relevantscientific literature to consolidate a better understating of the nature of the problem for investigation. These theories provides the initial conceptual foundations and the basic elements of research. Modules 5.4‐5.5 will provide a comprehensive concepts of research methodology components of conceptualizing the research variables, study designs including ascertaining validity and reliability of research findings, sampling, study population and selection criteria, data collection methods and tools focusing on questionnaire design and attitudinal measurements, research ethics and Data analysis and management. Other components of this section include the vii triangulation methodology, qualitative behavioral research methods and evaluation research methods, while the latter Modules 5.6‐5.8 will be concentrated on the issues of research proposal development covering steps in developing a research proposal, project management, data analysis and interpretation, and dissertation/thesis report writing skills for a scientific report. It has included the component of manuscript write‐up for a peer‐review journal publication, respectively. The final version of this Module 5.9 encompasses the summary of the entire module components presented in the document. This will enable the student(s) recast and articulate the scientific knowledge of empirical research for innovative evidence. The Module further examines the scientific approach to the meaning of ‘Science’ in a holistic approach, and the approaches to knowledge, including the various assumptions of science (Nachmias et al. 1987 & 2008) required in understanding the link to research. The scientific approach includes issues of the role of methodology, scientific revolution and the research process