HLTH3102 Qualitative Methods for Social Health Research

2016

4.5

6 x 2-hour on-line exercises per semester
9 x 1-hour on-line lectures per semester

HLTH3001 has been successfully completed

Knowledge of social or psychological theory

Quizzes; Assignment (70%); Presentation

This topic introduces students to various forms of qualitative health research methodologies (phenomenological, ethnography, symbolic interactionism, narrative, etc) and associated methods used primarily in non-clinical settings. The aim is to equip students with the necessary knowledge to both critique current qualitative/interpretive research approaches, to undertake this form of health research in a variety of settings, and to be cognisant of the ethical issues of researching human subjects on sensitive topics. Examples include ethical research with Indigenous Australians, protocols for conducting research on sensitive subject, and management of respondent distress. The focus is on student capacity to provide analytical and theoretical explanations for research findings drawing on both sociological and psychological theories of health and illness with specific relevance to the social determinants of health. The topic is of particular relevance to those engaged in health promotion needs analysis, quality assurance and evaluation research.

The aim of this topic is to provide students with the basic skills required to:

• understand the key features required for trustworthy qualitative research

• conduct critical analysis of qualitative research methodology and methods

• design and implement a small qualitative research project focused on the social determinants of health

• be aware of the protocols for the conduct of ethical research with vulnerable groups

• theorise the qualitative data drawing on either sociological, psychological or ethical theories/model illustrating the relationship between the substantive theory and the case under study

• Be aware and able to design research that is respectful of vulnerable groups; eg Indigenous Australians

At the end of the topic students should have a good grounding in basic qualitative techniques.

The final assignment - a small research project allows students to demonstrate and access skills in:
• Identifying and refining a research question

• Identifying the key ethical issues especially in relation to vulnerable groups such as Indigenous Australians

• Writing an abstract

• Conducting a critical and relevant literature review

• Identifying and applying theoretical frameworks to their chosen research question

• Undertaking 4 qualitative interviews

• Analysing and displaying results

• Interpreting results within the chosen theoretical frameworks

• Developing recommendations