Introduction to Research Methodology

Introdução à Metodologia de Investigação

Curse code:9554411

Renata Catarina Gonçalves Ramalho

Learning outcomes of the curricular unit:

The general aim of Curricular Unit Introduction to Research Methods is to develop students’ critical and scientific skills. Specific objectives are: to introduce students to research field, to help them understand the importance of scientific evidence in nutrition science (evidence-based nutrition), to encourage pertinent and relevant research questions in nutrition, and to stimulate communication of scientific results.

Skills to be developed:

• To be able to generate new hypothesis in nutrition and to recognize the role of research for a Nutritionist.
• To recognize the significance of state-of-the art revision and rationale when generating new hypothesis.
• To use the appropriated method to test a specific hypothesis/question.
• To understand the role of financing support and practicability when designing a project.
• To recognize different types of studies and different levels of evidence.
• To use correctly different bibliographic data bases.
• To understand the relevance of data collection in nutrition research.
• To be able to communicate research results to the scientific community appropriately.

Syllabus:

Lectures:

1. RESEARCH AND NUTRITION
   The role of research as a mediator between Nutrition Sciences and Societies.
   The framework of evidence-based nutrition worldwide.
   Ethics in research.
2. THE CHOICE OF METHODOLOGY
   Types of research: molecular/cellular, animal, clinical.
   Evidence pyramid.
3. METHODOLOGY IN SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH
   Selection/choice of theme.
   Bibliographic search: general and specific.
   Pre-plan and plan.
   Research project: financial support and practicability.
4. METHODOLOGY OF THE WRITING AND PRESENTATION OF SCIENTIFIC PAPERS
   Reports/dissertations/monographs: structure and list of bibliographic references.
   The scientific research article.
   Presentation of oral communications.
   Presentation of poster communications.

Suggested Bibliography:

• Jacobsen KH (2012) Introduction to Health Research Methods, Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC, Ontario, Canada. ISBN-13: 978-0763783341
• Sousa GV (2005) Metodologia da Investigação, redacção e apresentação de trabalhos científicos, Livraria Civilização Editora, Porto. ISBN: 972-26-1559-9
• Madeira AC & Abreu MM (2004) Comunicar em Ciência: como redigir e apresentar trabalhos científicos, Escolar Editora, Lisboa. ISBN: 972-59-2165-8