Course Outline
Epidemiological research is a key component in understanding and improving public health in the UK and throughout the world. It is increasingly important therefore, for health professionals to acquire the skills necessary to find, understand, and evaluate research information in this area.
This is a continuing professional development course. It is aimed at General Practitioners, but it is of value to anyone who is interested in learning more about epidemiology and to those interested in exploring epidemiological research information.
The course introduces important concepts and study characteristics in epidemiology and builds upon this knowledge using practical research examples which are highly relevant to General Practice in the UK (such as MMR and Chlamydia screening). In addition, the course introduces the process of evaluating epidemiological research studies and how to effectively criticise research literature. Upon completion, users will be able to make informed decisions on the importance of epidemiological studies in the context of their own practice.
The course is a self-directed, i.e. structured independent study, and web-based, giving students the flexibility to study where and when it is convenient. The course contains its own assessment tools and represents approximately 10-15 hours of learning time.
Course Content
The course contains four modules:
- Measures and Statistical Terminology: describes the measures and terminology used in epidemiological research. The module focuses on the methods used to determine the reliability of statistical interpretations, but without needing an in-depth knowledge of statistics.
- Observational Studies: focuses on the different types of observational studies used in research and utilises current research literature to illustrate their use.
- Interventional Studies: focuses on the different kinds of interventional studies and utilises current research literature to illustrate their use.
- Constructive Criticism of a Research Paper: builds upon knowledge from in the previous three units and illustrates how to utilise this information to effectively criticise an epidemiological research paper.
Aims of the Course
By the end of this course, learners will have an understanding of basic epidemiological concepts, epidemiological study characteristics and current epidemiology related issues in public health. Also, learners will be able to critically assess research in this area and to make informed decision on importance of this research to their health practice.
Teaching Methods & Course Materials
The course has been created by experts in epidemiology and online learning at the LSHTM. It is delivered via a web browser and requires a computer with an internet connection. All of the reading material is embedded in an electronic format within the online course.
It will take approximately fifteen hours of learning time to complete the course, however some of the reading activities have been designed to focus on specific areas of research papers and therefore, interested individuals who wish to read these papers in full, may take longer to complete the course.
Methods of Assessment
There is no formal assessment criteria for this course, however each of the modules contains a final test, which will be used to assess your knowledge of each of the topics.
Who Should Apply?
The course is available to any health professional who wishes to gain a working knowledge of epidemiology and to learn how to assess the importance of epidemiological research on their practice, though it is specifically aimed at General Practitioners. The course is also useful to anyone who has an interest in learning more about epidemiology and current epidemiological related health issues.
Applicants do not need to have previous experience of the topic.
As the course is self-directed, motivated individuals who are able to manage their own time and learning effectively, will gain the greatest benefit from this course.
When to apply
You can apply for this course at any time and you will be given 3 months to complete the course. An extension can be applied for if required.
Please return a completed application form along with an equal opportunities form to:
Registry, LSHTM, Keppel St, London WC1E 7HT, UK, Tel: +44 (0)20 7299 4648
Alternatively, by fax:
Fax: +44 (0)20 7299 4656
Or email: shortcourses@lshtm.ac.uk
