Course Decription

Course Description

The main goal of this course is to connect what students learn in theory with real-world applications in health sciences research and scholarship. Students will get hands-on experience in designing, implementing, and analyzing research projects, helping them develop important skills in critical thinking, problem-solving, data analysis, and communication.

Key Skills Developed in this Course:

• Research Design: Learn how to create research questions, set objectives, and design studies that match research interests.

• Data Collection: Discover various methods of collecting data dependent on the field of study, such as: surveys, experiments, interviews, observations, or data mining.

• Data Analysis: Get introduced to different statistical and qualitative analysis techniques to interpret data and draw conclusions.

• Research Ethics: Understand the ethical considerations in research to ensure studies are conducted responsibly.

• Project Management: Learn how to effectively manage time and resources to complete research projects in a timely manner.

• Communication: Improve written and oral presentation skills, specific to research. Learn how to communicate effectively with a research tutor, research lead, and research team.

• Mentorship: Work closely with a faculty member or mentor (called a Research Tutor) who will guide the research process, offering feedback and support.

Participating in a Research Practicum is very beneficial for those who are considering a career in academia or research-related fields. It provides valuable experience and a deeper understanding of the research process, helping to make informed decisions about one's future academic and career paths.

Expectations: Research Tutors

• Introduce students to the major aspects of the research process (e.g., question design, present state of knowledge, instrumentation, analysis);

• Include student in planning meetings where appropriate;

• Negotiate with student for an appropriate role that she/he/they can take within the project and which provides both a service to the project and a meaningful learning experience for the student;

• Introduce required components of the Research Practicum and evaluate according to information provided in the Course Syllabus;  

• View student’s poster on Research Poster Day, and evaluate the posters of other students as requested;

• Communicate with the Research Practicum Co-Coordinator any difficulties or general feedback about the experience;

• Review and grade the student’s evaluation binder;

• Other responsibilities for Research Tutors may be identified. 

Expectations: Students

• Participate actively in research team meetings;

• Read preparatory material prior to each team meeting;

• Consult appropriately with research tutor, research personnel and other faculty in relation to course requirements;

• Negotiate research project activities with a flexible approach to scheduling;

• Complete required components of the Research Practicum according to information provided in the Course Syllabus;  

• Facilitate a balance between individual learning needs and the needs of the research project in which she/he/they become involved;

• Complete required assignments as specified (e.g. abstract, poster presentation);  

• Meet course deadlines;

• Review his/her evaluation binder with the Research Tutor and participate in self-evaluation activities;

• Other responsibilities for students may be identified.