The students know the logic of the research process of empirical analyzes as the basis of health research (especially biomedical research) and theory generation. They are able to derive answerable questions and to reflect on and apply selected research methods to answer their goals and questions. The ability to critically reflect on the limitations of different research designs and methods exists. The students are able to meaningfully plan an empirical study according to scientific criteria.

Modules of the 1st and 2nd Semester

• Scientific approach, scientific criteria
• Research and research process (problem, research question, (forming an) hypothesis, goal, research methods, experimental design and execution, outcome, interpretation / discussion)
• Designs: experimental, quasi-experimental and ex-post-facto plans such as longitudinal section, cross section
• Evidence hierarchy and selection of suitable designs
• Sampling
• Presentation of selected methods of data collection: e.g. survey, observation
• Quality criteria for research approaches
• Search and selection of appropriate methodological tools including critical examination of their suitability for the own study
• Overview of selected qualitative evaluation methods
• Critical analysis of the strengths and weaknesses of different designs and methods
• Planning of empirical studies (synopsis)

Bortz J. & Döring N. (2006), Forschungsmethoden und Evaluation für Human- und Sozialwissenschaftler, Springer;
Flick U. (2015), Introducing Research Methodology, Sage;
Schnell R. et al. (2011), Methoden der empirischen Sozialforschung, R. Oldenbourg;
Flick U. (2009), Sozialforschung: Methoden und Anwendungen: Ein Überblick für die BA-Studiengänge, Rowohlt;
Mayring P. (2015), Qualitative Inhaltsanalyse: Grundlagen und Techniken, Beltz;
Books, journals and websites according to the current state of knowledge in the respective fields.

Lectures, group exercises, reflections, discussions

Module examination