Studying online

There are now 2 possible online modes for units:

Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.

Click on an offering mode for more details.

Unit Overview

Description

Parts 1 and 2 must be completed to fulfil the requirements of the unit.

This unit provides students with the ability to design and undertake health research and thereby contribute to the future development of population health. It provides students with the knowledge, skills and values required to conduct scientific research. It is designed to develop enhanced observational skills, relevant practical research skills, lateral thinking and problem solving, literacy and communication skills, as well as professional responsibility and ethical conduct. It also develops and consolidates students' knowledge and skills acquired during undergraduate study, with particular emphasis on using those skills in a sustained and purposeful way in conducting independent research relevant to population health.

Honours students participate in original research by the conduct of a supervised research project, a presentation of research findings and preparation of a journal-style scientific manuscript. They also participate in the School of Population and Global Health seminar program. Specifically, students implement a research plan to investigate the research question developed in the unit, collect, manage and analyse their research data using appropriate methods, interpret the results and draw conclusions using published evidence and sound scientific arguments, present a research seminar, and prepare a manuscript. Students are required to attend at least 80 per cent of the school seminar program, or equivalent, with approval of the honours coordinators. Students maintain a reflective journal of these seminars and identify the key messages of each weekly seminar attended and any relevance to their research. They are encouraged to think laterally about what is relevant to their particular project.

Parts 1 and 2 must be completed to fulfil the requirements of the unit.

Credit
12 points
Offering
AvailabilityLocationMode
Not available in 2024UWA (Perth)Face to face
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) develop skills and demonstrate ability to work independently; (2) design and justify appropriate research methods; (3) critique and think laterally regarding the application of other research to their research project; (4) interpret research results within a broader public health context; (5) implement a research strategy; (6) demonstrate scholarly communication of research aims, methods, results and interpretations; (7) discuss the ethical implications associated with research; (8) effectively manage a research project; and (9) interpret and respond appropriately to feedback.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) supervisor report; (2) manuscript; and (3) research seminar. Further information is available in the unit outline.



Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Unit Coordinator(s)
Dr Dani Barrington
Unit rules
Prerequisites
enrolment in
honours in Population Health (HONS-PPHLT)
Contact hours
seminars: 1 hour per week
one-on one meetings with supervisors
field work and data collection
  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Unit readings, including any essential textbooks, are listed in the unit outline for each unit, one week prior the commencement of study. The unit outline will be available via the LMS and the UWA Handbook one week prior the commencement of study. Reading lists and essential textbooks are subject to change each semester. Information on essential textbooks will also be made available on the Essential Textbooks. This website is updated regularly in the lead up to semester so content may change. It is recommended that students purchase essential textbooks for convenience due to the frequency with which they will be required during the unit. A limited number of textbooks will be made available from the Library in print and will also be made available online wherever possible. Essential textbooks can be purchased from the commercial vendors to secure the best deal. The Student Guild can provide assistance on where to purchase books if required. Books can be purchased second hand at the Guild Secondhand bookshop (second floor, Guild Village), which is located on campus.
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.