Medical Research Methods

Module Description:

This module provides learners with fundamental knowledge and skills in scientific research, focusing on core principles in research protocol design—including problem identification, formulation of research objectives, selection of study methodology, and projection of expected outcomes and conclusions. Learners are also trained to critically appraise the value of evidence generated from research studies.

The module is structured progressively from basic to advanced levels. By the end of the course, learners will be able to develop a preliminary research outline and refine it into a complete research protocol.

Credit Hours:

For Residency Training: 3 credits (2 theory, 1 practical)
For Master's and Specialist Level II Programs: 2 credits (1 theory, 1 practical)

Module objectives

Knowledge

Apply theoretical foundations of scientific research methodology to the development of a research protocol.
Analyze characteristics, strengths, and limitations of descriptive, observational analytic, and experimental study designs.
Apply sample size calculations for descriptive studies; perform comparative analyses for binary, continuous, and survival outcome variables.
Critically appraise research protocols and scientific articles in terms of problem statement, research objectives, literature review, and methodology.
Apply principles of writing the Methods and Results sections of scientific papers and theses.

Skills

Formulate research questions that meet the FINER criteria (Feasible, Interesting, Novel, Ethical, Relevant).
Select an appropriate study design, research outcome, and study population.

Autonomy and Responsibility

Recognize the importance of scientific research in professional development.
Uphold the value of integrity and honesty in conducting research.

Module content

Introduction to Medical Research Methods - Drafting a research protocol
Main Study Designs in Medical Research: cross-sectional surveys, case series, epidemiological studies, randomized controlled trials (RCTs), non-randomized trials, diagnostic test evaluation studies
Principles of Writing a Research Protocol and Scientific Paper, including: Problem statement, research objectives, literature review, methodology, results and discussion
Sample Size Calculation
Selection of Outcome Variables and Statistical Analysis Methods
Designing Questionnaires and Managing Research Data
Writing the Results and Discussion Sections of a Study
Critical Appraisal of Scientific Articles Using the CASP (Critical Appraisal Skills Programme) Tool
Research Ethics and Project Management in academic institutions and healthcare settings

Teaching methods

Large-group lecture
Experiential learning: group assignments, individual tasks
Small-group discussion

Learning materials

Contact information

Didactic lectures by faculty members supplemented with relevant reference materials

Module coordinator: MSc. Hoang Minh – Assoc. Prof. Dr. Le Khac Bao
Email: ttgdyh@ump.edu.vn