Gender-based violence occurs globally and is prevalent in many forms, including intimate partner violence, rape and coerced sex, child sexual abuse, and human trafficking. Such forms of gender-based violence have serious impacts on individuals’ physical, sexual and psychological health, as well as their social and economic well-being.

Well-designed research on the causes, and consequences of violence, as well as violence prevention interventions, are essential to inform policies and services to prevent and respond to gender-based violence. Conducting action-oriented research on gender-based violence that is robust and carried out in ethical and safe ways requires specific methodological approaches.

Course aims

This course aims to strengthen participants’  knowledge and skills to conduct or commission technically rigorous, ethical and policy- and service-relevant research on various forms of violence against women, children and adolescents.

Launched in 2006, the Gender, Violence and Health Centre (GVHC) at the School is a multi-disciplinary research group that works in partnership with local and international organisations around the world to carry out research on gender-based violence and health. The Centre aims to improve the health and well-being of populations, particularly women and girls, through action-oriented research on the extent, cause and consequences of gender-based violence.

We are experts in the evaluation of complex social interventions to prevent violence, using rigorous, cutting-edge evaluation methods, including randomised controlled trials. We are committed to using our research and our strong global partnerships to inform policies and interventions that promote reductions in gender-based violence.

The course is also intended for individuals who have an interest in research on GBV. It will be of particular interest to those who want to strengthen their methodological skills and understanding of GBV research. It is relevant for individuals working on health-related topics such as, sexual and reproductive health, maternal health, HIV, mental health and substance use.

Upon completing the course, participants will have a strong understanding of: current gold standard methods to conceptualise and measure violence exposures, various methodological techniques for assessing the relationship between violence and health outcomes; and practical issues faced when meeting ethical and safety obligations.

Who should apply?

The course is designed for individuals conducting or commissioning research on gender-based violence. It is particularly valuable for those looking to incorporate a ‘violence component’ into quantitative or qualitative studies or intervention evaluations. The course is also relevant to professionals working on health-related topics, including sexual and reproductive health, maternal health, HIV, mental health, and substance use.

Eligibility

This is a specialised course focusing on methods to research gender-based violence. Participants are expected to have some prior familiarity or experience with conducting research and relevant knowledge about the subject of gender-based violence. Teaching will be conducted in English and participants will need sufficient language skills to read course materials and participate actively in group discussions. Participants will be expected to have an undergraduate degree and ideally, some post-graduate training in research methods. Knowledge of computers and a basic knowledge of Word for Windows and Excel is also essential.

Additional information

• Course leaflet