MRS350 Medical Radiation Science Research (16)

CSU Discipline Area: Medical Radiation Science (MEDRA)

Duration: Two sessions

Abstract:

This subject introduces the principles and practice of research and examines the place of research in professional practice. The subject aims to equip students with the basic research skills necessary for their continuing professional education. The subject considers concepts in research methodology including critical appraisal of literature, research proposals, research design and basic statistical concepts and methods. These skills are integrated into an independent research study involving the critical review and evaluation of existing data and knowledge or, if pre-approved, the collection, analysis and interpretation of new data.

+ Subject Availability Modes and Locations

No offerings have been identified for this subject in 2013.Continuing students should consult the SAL for current offering details prior to contacting their course coordinator: MRS350

Where differences exist between the handbook and the SAL, the SAL should be taken as containing the correct subject offering details.

Enrolment restrictions:

Bachelor of Medical Radiation Science only (Nuclear Medicine or Medical Imaging)

Objectives:

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:

- be aware of the moral and ethical responsibilities associated with scientific investigation,
- be able to undertake literature searches using appropriate resources,
- be able to effectively communicate through scientific writing,
- be able to critically appraise scientific / health journal articles,
- understand the basic concepts of research methodology,
- understand and be able to use basic statistical concepts and techniques in analysing data, including:
- use graphical and numerical methods to describe data,
- interpret and explain graphical and numerical summaries using statistical language,
- use a modern calculator and a statistical software package,
- identify the appropriate statistical techniques and conduct statistical analysis (both by hand and with the use of a computer),
- explain the relationship between probability, statistics and inference,
- understand the importance of experimental design in terms of inference, sample size, cost and efficiency.
- be able to structure and submit a research proposal,
- be able to structure and submit appropriate documentation for ethics approval and/or radiation safety approval,
- have developed the knowledge, skills and capacity to analyse, evaluate and review current research literature,
- be able to apply the results to the practice of clinical sciences in the students? areas of specialisation,
- gain experience of producing research material for publication.

Syllabus:

The subject will cover the following topics:

Module 1: Research methodology - the scientific method and research process, - research planning, - research designs, - data collection techniques, - ethics in research, - sourcing health and scientific literature, - research proposal and approval development, - report writing and referencing, Module 2: Statistical analysis - descriptive statistics, - basic probability, - random variables, - sampling distributions, - inference, - statistical tests, - sample size and study power. Module 3: Project - dissemination and critical evaluation of research - individual or group research project.

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