Unit Code: PHT734

Unit Name: Research Methods in Physiotherapy 1

Description: This unit offers learners the opportunity to learn basic and fundamental principles of research, types of research, research protocol development and research cycle management. The coverage will include Anatomy and Physiology of Research, Conceiving a Research Idea, Developing Research Question and Study Plan, Research Designs, data management and Analysis, Ethical Issues and Research Protocol Implementation.

Learning Target Outcomes: On successful completion of this course, the students will be able to: 1. Describe the Structure and Function of Research: Research Question, Significance of the Problem, Study Design, Participants and Variables (Predictor and Outcome), Concepts of Internal Validity and Eternal Validity. 2. Conceptualize and Assess Research Idea using the PICOS and FINER approach. 3. Conduct Literature Search, Review Literature, identify gaps in knowledge and Synthesize Literature. 4. Identify, Describe and Differentiate between Study Designs: Observational Study (Cross-Sectional, Cohort and Case Control), Quasi-Experimental and Randomized Control Trials; and differentiate between Association and Causality; Ethical Issues, Work Plan, Budget, References and Appendices. 5. Describe Study Participants: Target population, Sampling and Recruitment. 6. Describe and explain underlying Principles in estimating Study Sample Size. 7. Plan and undertake Precise, Accurate and Valid Measurement. 8. Develop Data Management and Analysis Plan. 9. Understand and Apply Ethical Principles in Research; Develop Work Plan, Budget, References and Appendices.

Prerequisite: NA

Prerequisite Sentence: N/A

Credit Point: 15

Offered In: Semester 1