Research methodology: an innovative approach to a venerable course

Area of Science:

• Public Health Education
• Research Methodology
• Translational Science

Background:

• Evidence-based public health and medicine require rigorous research methods.
• Translational research (Phase 4/T4) emphasizes practical application and real-world benefits.
• Enhancing student intrinsic motivation is key for effective learning in research methodology.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe innovations implemented in a graduate-level Research Methodology Course.
• To foster students' desire to learn and apply rigorous research methods.
• To align course objectives with evidence-based practices and translational research goals.

Main Methods:

• Implementation of a dozen specific pedagogical innovations.
• Focus on enhancing intrinsic motivation for learning research methods.
• Emphasis on developing skills for practical, beneficial research.

Main Results:

• Preliminary outcomes indicate positive impacts of the implemented innovations.
• Enhanced student engagement in learning rigorous research techniques.
• Improved student focus on conducting research with practical applications.

Conclusions:

• The described innovations effectively enhance the learning of research methodology.
• Fostering intrinsic motivation is crucial for developing competent public health researchers.
• The approach supports the principles of evidence-based practice and translational science.