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Universitat Internacional de Catalunya

Ethics and Research Methodology (Cross Disc. Subject)

Ethics and Research Methodology (Cross Disc. Subject)
1
13684
1
Annual
OB
Main language of instruction: English

Other languages of instruction: Catalan, Spanish

Teaching staff

Introduction

The scientific methodology is the fundamental axis of research in health sciences. Knowledge is essential to produce new ideas, build theoretical models, innovation processes, as a definitive, theoretical and empirical test that contributes to a better understanding of reality. The methodology facilitates the detection and resolution of specific problems. Only its knowledge and implementation guarantees scientific rigor.

Pre-course requirements

none

Objectives

This subject aims to give the basic skills and attitudes to face a research study in Health Sciences, specifically in dentistry, as well as training to evaluate the research of other working groups. Knowledge of research and evaluation methodologies that allow the integration of theoretical perspectives and research experiences in the design and implementation of an effective intervention. Design of search questions about areas of uncertainty in clinical practice. Knowledge of the main sources of information based on evidence. Aptitudes and attitudes to communicate new ideas and results of health research, both to researchers and other health professionals and to society in general.

Competences/Learning outcomes of the degree programme

CB10 - Acquire learning skills that allow them to continue studying in a self-directed and autonomous way. • CB6 - Possess and understand knowledge that provides a basis or opportunity to be original in the development and / or application of ideas in a research context. • CB7 - Apply the knowledge acquired, and develop their ability to solve problems in new or unfamiliar environments within broader (or multidisciplinary) contexts related to their area of study. • CB8 - Integrate knowledge and face the complexity of formulating judgments based on scientific evidence, based on information that may be incomplete or limited, including reflections on the social and ethical responsibilities linked to the application of their knowledge and judgments. • CE1 - Ability to apply the scientific method, experimental design and biostatistics to solve a question or test a hypothesis. • CE3 - Know how to apply the most used bioinformatics tools in basic research. • CT1 - Capacity for integration in an established, multidisciplinary and multicultural work team.

Learning outcomes of the subject

Ask appropriate research questions. It includes the fundamental concepts related to epidemiology and the scientific process. He knows how to read scientific publications with a critical spirit and recognizes their parts. Understands and interprets the fundamental and specific concepts of biostatistics related to research in dentistry. Appropriately manages statistical tools to complete the analysis of data from your research. It uses the specific computer tools of bibliographic search.

Syllabus

1. Introduction to scientific knowledge • The process of scientific knowledge • Characteristics of scientific knowledge • Evidence-based practice. Critical thinking • Introduction to critical reading of scientific articles *         2. Research in health sciences • Importance of research in dentistry • Statement of the research question • Introduction to the bibliographic review * • Main lines of research in dentistry nationally and internationally        3. Main guidelines / regulations for project preparation *: CONSORT Guide,               STROBE, AGREE, SPIRIT        4. Preparation of a research project • Project summary • Justification of the study • Hypothesis • General and specific objectives • Methodology • Introduction to the design of studies *: observational (descriptive, analytical), experimental (quasi-experimental, pre-post studies, pure) • Types of study: cross-sectional, prospective longitudinal (cohort), retrospective (case-control), clinical trial • Study population and sample selection techniques: probabilistic and non-probabilistic sampling • Criteria for selecting the study sample • Intervention: randomization techniques (treatment arms), blinding procedures (single blind, double blind, triple blind) • Procedures per visit • Data Collect • Definition of measurement instruments: concepts of reliability and validity, development and adaptation of a questionnaire • Concept of bias • Sample's size calculation • Basic concepts: alpha and beta error, statistical power • Calculation of the sample according to the type of study • Writing of statistical analysis • Concepts of internal and external validity • Ethical considerations • Study limitations • Bibliometric impact • Workplan • Economic memory • Annexes 5. Introduction to scientific communication • Knowledge transfer • Importance of scientific communication • Scientific communication formats

Teaching and learning activities

In person



Learning activities: 2 ECTS CT

Teaching activities:  CM, MC y TRB

Evaluation systems and criteria

In person



Mandatory attendance

Continous evaluation - EC (25%)

Resolution of cases - RC (25%)

Final exam - PFE (50%)

Bibliography and resources

Narváez, V. P. D. (2009). Metodología de la investigación científica y bioestadística: para médicos, odontólogos y estudiantes de ciencias de la salud. RiL Editores.