Keywords
General description
The course covers the main research methods used in epidemiology. The course builds on and extends upon TERKANA1 Epidemiologian perusteet / HEAAC03 Basic Epidemiology.
Learning outcomes
After completing this course, the student will
- be familiar with the principles of selecting an appropriate study design to assess occurrence and etiology of public health problems
- be cognizant of the concepts underlying use of cohort, case-control and clinical trial designs
- understand the strengths and limitations of major epidemiologic study designs
- be able to identify sources of bias in epidemiologic studies and be familiar with methods to minimize such biases.
- be able to critically review existing epidemiologic literature and interpret the results of a particular study after considering potential sources of errors, including bias and confounding.
- be able to consider the limitations of a particular study in the context of other research in the field
- be able to write a structured research plan
Contents
Epidemiologic concepts, epidemiologic study designs, assessment of sources of error and causal relations will be covered at more advanced level compared with courses TERKANA1 Epidemiologian perusteet / HEAAC03 Basic epidemiology.
Teaching methods
Classroom work max 40 h
Teaching language
EnglishLectures are given in English, practicals are arranged both in English and in Finnish.
Modes of study
- Degree Programme Students
- Other Students
- Open University Students
- Doctoral Students
- Exchange Students
Participation in lectures and practicals, and submitting a research plan for a proposed epidemiologic study.
Participation in lectures and practicals, and submitting a research plan for a proposed epidemiologic study. Advance preparation required for practicals. Readings.
Evaluation and evaluation criteria
Numeric 1-5.The research plan will be assessed on scale 1-5 (or fail), based on the public health importance of the topic, background and rationale for the proposed study, clarity in the formulation of the study question, appropriateness of the methods and selected study design, feasibility of conducting the study, and overall clarity of the research plan.
Study materials
Announced in the teaching schedule.
Further information
The course is organized every other year, even years, spring term.
Maximum number of students: 45. Students, to whom this course is obligatory, will be given priority.
Belongs to following study modules
2018–2019