Aim and Content

Two days of introduction with lectures covering all chapters of a complete research proposal, with special emphasis on how to formulate the research question(s) and the objectives. The main body of the course beyond the introductory lectures/exercises is the actual work the students carry out on their own proposals. Regular discussions with supervisor(s) is an important element of the process. The "exam" is the final proposal submitted to the CIH educational staff for evaluation and approval.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the module, the student should be able to

• compile a comprehensive proposal on the research topic
• choose relevant literature as justification for the study
• clearly formulate the research question(s), broad objective(s) and specific objectives
• describe the data collection tools/instruments
• choose proper statistical methods in data analysis
• formulate expected outcomes
• describe a realistic research plan, taking into account limited time for data collection
• provide a specified budget covering relevant expenses
• provide a plan for dissemination of results
• demonstrate knowledge of the process and requirements for ethical clearance of her/his project

Course Unit Level

Master

Access to the Course Unit

Open to students enlisted at the programmes "Master of Philosophy in International Health" and "Master of Philosophy in Oral Health" at the University of Bergen.

Pre-requirements

Minimum a good Bachelor or equivalent, according to the requirements for the Master programme.

Recommended previous knowledge

Introductory lectures of proposal writing and group work in course INTH301 (or equivalent).

Teaching Methods

Introductory lectures, exercises in groups and individually, group discussions and plenary discussions. Regular sessions with supervisor team during proposal development. Presentations of proposals to fellow students during research seminars at CIH, and plenary discussions with feedback from students and scientific staff.

Compulsory Requirements

Participation in lectures and group work

Assessment methods

A committee consisting of supervisor and an independent teacher at CIH shall evaluate the proposal and decide whether it is acceptable by grading "pass" or "fail", and may also suggest changes to improve the proposal if appropriate.

Deadline: 15 April

Grading Scale

Pass/fail

Reading List

Lecture notes and handouts. Other literature to be recommended during the course.

Place of Teaching

Centre for International Health, University of Bergen

Course Unit Evaluation

Students evaluate the teaching according to the quality assessment requirements of the University of Bergen. The evaluation method is through an online electronic form.