Aims

To provide a detailed understanding of quantitative methods used in health services evaluation, specifically. survey methods, randomized controlled trials and mixed method process evaluations alongside trials. The focus will be on research design and data collection rather than analysis. Statistical formulae and methods are kept to a minimum.

Outline Of Syllabus

Selecting data collection methods; Survey sampling strategies; Designing questionnaires; Data coding and recording; Experimental and quasi-experimental studies; Trial design (to include pilot and feasibility trials); Critical appraisal of randomized controlled trials; Mixed methods for process evaluations alongside trials.

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

Interactive seminars will give the students basic understanding of concepts and enable them to explore these in more detail via their own private study. The content of the seminars will focus on quantitative methods used in evaluative health and health services research. There will be extensive small group work and discussion opportunities, for students to consider and put into practice the ideas and techniques presented to them.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

The take home assignment will assess students’ knowledge, understanding and interpretation of quantitative and mixed methods in health services evaluation. It will comprise a series of short questions on a published evaluative study. These questions will address knowledge and skills objectives listed above. The assignment will require students to demonstrate and integrate learning across the range of topics covered in this module and to show skills of critical thinking