Professional Development

Applications

University

Assessment

The assessment comprises the following:

• Online multiple choice question (MCQ) quizzes
• A structured online test (50 minutes towards the end of the course) to assess interpretation of results (table/graph/text)
• A 1,500 word essay to assess understanding of more complex epidemiological issues, and the ability to apply these to real examples.

Opportunities exist for formative assessment in the module, through online quizzes, Blackboard collaborate sessions and individual feedback.

Campus

Online

Careers/further study

This module contributes towards

• PGCert/PGDip/MSc Environmental Health
• MSc Environmental Health Studies.

Content

The course syllabus for this level 7 (Masters level) typically includes:

• History of epidemiology and our understanding of disease causation in populations.
• Characteristics, strengths and weaknesses of epidemiological studies.
• Sources of public health data.
• Basic statistics - descriptive and inferential.
• Introduction to statistical tests, including parametric and non-parametric.
• Controlling for bias and confounding in epidemiological studies.
• The concept of evidence based policy and practice.
• Hierarchies of evidence.
• Tools and techniques in critical appraisal.
• The dissemination and communication of evidence.
• Ethical issues in the use of data.

Course Director

Dr Issy Bray

E-mail

pd@uwe.ac.uk

Introduction

On successful completion of this 15 credit Quantitative Health Research (Distance Learning) module, you will be able to:

• Understand the historical basis for epidemiology in public health
• Identify and critically analyse the strengths, limitations and issues to consider with different types of epidemiology studies for public health policy and practice
• Demonstrate familiarity with the sources of evidence routinely used as a basis for health policy and practice, including strengths and limitations
• Understand and interpret basic statistical analysis, particularly relating to inferential statistics
• Critically appraise evidence used in public health, utilising various tools and techniques
• Understand how evidence is used in the policy process

Learning and Teaching

Teaching is delivered in the format of up to eight online lectures (delivered as audio podcasts or video capture linked with Adobe presenter or equivalent), plus online seminars and other web-based activities.

Online seminar activities include student-centred active learning techniques (e.g. via Collaborate) and access to a module discussion board or blog. These are delivered via the Blackboard online learning platform.

Essential, indicative and supplementary online learning materials and resources are also provided via Blackboard, with links to online library resources.

Study facilities

The Faculty of Health and Applied Sciences has an excellent reputation for the quality of its teaching and the facilities it provides.

Get a feel for the Health Professions facilities we have on offer here from wherever you are.

Telephone

+44 (0)117 32 81158

Title

15 credit level 7 module