Scientific Research Methodology

At the end of the Scientific Research Methodology course, students should be able to: 1. state the importance of scientific research; 2. describe basic principles of scientific research and their applications; 3. identify sources and how to source relevant materials for a research idea; 4. identify and devise means of solving common health problems through research; 5. conduct, present and defend research findings in conventional manners; 6. state steps involved in developing a research project; 7. identify a problem and develop a study on the problem; 8. conduct literature search/survey to write a background knowledge of what is in the literature about research problem; 9. brainstorm and come up with the appropriate study design to address the problem; 10. demonstrate how to write null and alternative hypothesis; 11. determine relevant statistic tests to use for data analysis; 12. apply probability distribution and analysis of variance; 13. describe the process of data sampling; 14. analyse continuous and categorical data; 15. use of computer software (such as graphics using SPSS, SAS, and EXCEL spread sheet) to aid in the collection, collation and analysis of data; and 16. write research report from data.

Introduction to the basic principles of scientific research. Literature search and review of current literature. Conceptualisation and definition of research problems. Experimental design; project planning; work plan and budget; Data collection; data analysis; review of statistical methods; interpretation of results; conclusion and referencing. Format for project write-up. Preparation / seminar write-up and presentation of data as oral and poster on selected research topic. 500 Level