Research Methodology and Ethics

The course introduces the principal study designs, methodological approaches and ethical considerations in disaster research; with a focus on research development.

Deadline for applications: 1 October 2019
Start your online application now!

To apply for this course please contact the admissions office on mdma@sund.ku.dk

Institution

School of Global Health, University of Copenhagen.
The course takes place in Copenhagen, Denmark

Course leader

Associate Professor Peter Furu 

Type

This is a mandatory course in the Master of Disaster Management programme.

Duration

• Part 1: 11-15 November 2019
• Part 2: 6-24 January 2020: Full time lectures and exercises, including a few days of individual or group study

ECTS credits

7.5 ECTS

Language

English

Learning outcomes

Knowledge

On completion of the course, students should be able to:

• Critically appraise relevant scientific research methodologies and their application in disaster management.

Skills

On completion of the course, students should be able to:

• Retrieve and critically review scientific literature and information from peer-reviewed and grey literature sources.
• Identify research problems and formulate relevant research questions within the field of disaster management and define and delimit study objectives.
• Choose study designs and identify appropriate methods for data collection and analysis.
• Discuss possible ethical considerations and limitations.
• Critically interpret and discuss research findings in relation to existing evidence within the field.

Competences

On completion of the course, students should be able to:

• Formulate a consistent and clear synopsis in preparation for a small-scale research project.
• Communicate research findings according to the IMRAD structure for scientific literature.

Content

• Critical literature review for identification of relevant knowledge gaps, research problems and questions.
• Quantitative methods for primary and secondary data collection - including definition of outcomes and variables; target population; sampling; sample size calculation; and questionnaire design. Central issues on data management, validation, and analyses using statistical software (e.g. SPSS) are also covered.
• Qualitative methods for primary data collection including focus group discussions; key informant interviews; and participant observation. Data management validation and analyses including field note analyses are also covered.
• Mixed methods approaches in terms of the rationale for use, common procedures, and limitations.
• Basic principles and statutes on research ethics focusing on the specific challenges within disaster research.

Teaching and learning methods

This course consists of a variety of teaching/learning methods (blended learning) ranging from class-based lectures, journal clubs, group work and student led presentations, as well as individual preparation and study time. All in-class sessions are moderated by faculty staff members. Students are expected to contribute actively through oral and written presentations, as well as constructive feedback to colleagues during sessions.

The teaching/learning methods could be listed as follows:

• Lectures - imparting knowledge concepts, theories and models
• Journal clubs - discussion of relevant papers with emphasize on analytical skills and knowledge gain
• Group work - guided with a set of questions or an exercise based on a specific case
• Presentations - of group and individual student assignments

Assessment Procedures

The written synopsis (max 2500 words excl. annexes) will be assessed. Pass/fail.

Prerequisites

The applicants must live up to the admission criteria of either the Master of International Health or the Master of Disaster Management programme. 

Class size

The number of participants is limited to 60. The course may be cancelled if less than 12 participants.

Fees

• Reduced fee: DKK 14,000 - For students from EU/EEA, and students with a DIS, Fulbright or Rotary Ambassadorial Scholarship.
• Normal fee: DKK 18,000 - For all other students.

For approximate exchange rates between DKK (Danish Krone) and other currencies please contact your bank or visit this website. All fees are subject to regulation.

Scholarships

We do not offer any scholarships, nor can we assist in finding funding, but on our page about scholarships we have collected some information that might be useful.