Research Methodology 
Metodologia de Investigação
Course code:9504211
Ângela Maria Correia de Figueiredo Abreu Pereira
Learning outcomes of the curricular unit:
At the end of the course students should be able to demonstrate the following skills and capabilities:
- Describe the different approaches to scientific research;
- Develop a critical stance towards the existing information;
- Assess available information on health, particularly of Physiotherapy;
- Collect and evaluate evidence of information from a wide range of sources using methods of gathering and interpreting data in order to provide information to guide practice or benefits;
- Recognize what it is, what is its importance and the prerequisites to participate in undergraduate research;
- Use different techniques and instruments for data collection;
- Develop a research project.
Syllabus:
- Research and Science
- The Scientific Method: Qualitative and Quantitative Methodologies. Planning a research work. The experimental method: validity and limits. Other research methods, observation techniques, surveys, interviews, case study, etc.
- Critical analysis of literature.
- Purpose and objectives of the Study
- Theories and assumptions: Formulation of hypotheses
- Variable: Notion of variable and measurement scale. Dependent and independent variables. Control variables.
- Population. Sample. Sampling Techniques.
- Techniques and instruments of data collection
- Organization of cross-sectional, longitudinal and mixed studies. Appropriateness of the methodology to the problem
- Sources of information
- Normative aspects: References; Software as references manager
- Preparation of a research project.
Suggested Bibliography:
- Ribeiro JLP (2010) Metodologia de Investigação em Psicologia e Saúde. 2nd ed. Porto: Legis Editora
- Bell J (2002). Como Realizar um Projecto de Investigação. Lisboa: Gradiva
- Carmo H, Ferreira MM (1998). Metodologia da Investigação: Guia de Auto-aprendizagem. Lisboa: Universidade Aberta
- Eco H (1989). Como se faz uma tese. São Paulo: Perspectiva.
- Fortin MF (1999). O Processo de Investigação: Da concepção à realização. Loures: Lusociência
- Jenkins S, Price CJ, Twomey L (1998). The Researching Therapist. A practical guide to performing and communicating research. London: Churchill Livingstone
- Martins G (2000). Guia para elaboração de Monografias e Trabalhos de Conclusão de Curso. São Paulo: Atlas
- Quivy R, Campenhoudt LV (1992). Manual de Investigação em Ciências Sociais. Lisboa: Gradiva