Introduction to Medical Research (MEDS40007)

HonoursPoints: 50On Campus (Parkville)

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Overview

Availability
Semester 2 (Extended)
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In this subject, the first subject in the Bachelor of Medical Science (Degree with Honours), you will learn the theory behind, and practical application of, the skills required to locate, synthesise, evaluate and apply clinical evidence, and broaden your experience and comprehension of the relationship between clinical healthcare and biomedical research. You will have the opportunity to interact with a variety of medical and scientific researchers to have a clearer understanding and appreciation of the background work and processes involved in the advancement of clinical knowledge and clinical practice through developing skills in the acquisition, evaluation and application of information (evidence). During this subject, you will participate in modules which explore concepts related to: the conduct of clinical research; research integrity; methodologies used to collect and analyse experimental data; critical appraisal and the evaluation of different types of published scientific literature and; evidence-based medicine and the relationship between research and clinical practice.  In addition, you will complete a module on Presenting Academic Discourse (which is subject LING90002 Presenting Academic Discourse) which will allow you opportunities to develop skills in communicating research findings, both written and oral, to your research peers and professional colleagues.

Intended learning outcomes

Upon completion of this subject, students should be able to:



  • Describe the key principles of how scientific discovery and evidence are used to support clinical practice
  • Differentiate and critique common methodologies used in clinical research and demonstrate the ways in which knowledge and research evidence are assembled and evaluated to provide a scientific rationale for updating clinical practice and treatment
  • Justify selection of, and appropriately use, a variety of analytical techniques to appraise clinical research data
  • Explain the benefits of clinical research and the value of health professionals contributing to the advancement of knowledge
  • Recognise and explain the ethical responsibilities associated with the design, conduct and application of clinical research
  • Use a combination of oral and written communication approaches to effectively articulate and communicate knowledge, concepts and research findings with a wide range of audiences
  • Demonstrate introductory skills in the critical appraisal of the literature through identifying and assessing the strengths, weakness and biases of qualitative and quantitative study designs commonly encountered in the medical literature

Generic skills

  • Display enhanced oral and written communication skills appropriate for a diverse a range of audiences and settings
  • Work collaboratively and productively as an individual and in teams
  • Engage in self-reflection and self-directed study
  • Apply scholarly, ethical and professional thinking to personal and academic conduct.

Last updated: 10 January 2025